Lead Flight Software Engineer

Who We Are

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low‑cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem’s reliance on consumable fuel. We are focused on creating an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head‑on.

Our goal is to move away from one‑to‑one space architectures and unlock a one‑to‑many system where each satellite can deploy a large number of payloads without firing a thruster.

The Lead Flight Software Engineer will work in a fast‑paced prototyping environment with an aggressive schedule toward flight. The role includes low‑level and high‑level software for Space Kinetic’s products through all phases of the development process, from concept through production. As the technical leader, you will design, implement, and validate mission‑critical software that enables spacecraft control, autonomy, communication, and safety.

• Lead the design and development of flight software architecture, including guidance, navigation, control (GNC), telemetry, command, and fault‑management systems.
• Define software requirements, interfaces, and verification strategies in coordination with systems, electrical, and mission engineering teams.
• Develop robust, real‑time, fault‑tolerant software using C/C++ and/or Rust in embedded or RTOS environments.
• Perform design reviews, code reviews, and verification activities to ensure safety, reliability, and performance compliance with space flight standards such as NASA NPR, ECSS, and DO‑178C.
• Mentor and guide software engineers through technical leadership, code quality enforcement, and system‑level integration.
• Support spacecraft‑in‑the‑loop, hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL), and flight simulation testing environments.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of software development processes, tools, and best practices across the engineering organization.
• Participate in mission readiness reviews, anomaly resolution, and on‑orbit software updates and maintenance.
• Use simulation environments and ground software integration.
• Possess excellent leadership, collaboration, and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Apply strong problem‑solving ability and technical judgment under mission‑critical constraints.
• Demonstrate passion for advancing space technologies and contributing to successful missions.

• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering.
• 5–10 years of experience developing embedded or real‑time software for space, aerospace, robotics, or mission‑critical systems.
• Proven experience leading software development through all phases of the system lifecycle—from requirements through flight operations.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ with working knowledge of Python or scripting languages for automation and testing.
• Familiarity with RTOS, bare‑metal programming, or Linux‑based embedded systems.
• Deep understanding of software reliability, deterministic timing, concurrency, and resource management in constrained environments.
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (green card holder) to meet U.S. government export regulations.
• Ability to maintain or obtain a government security clearance.

• Experience with flight software frameworks such as NASA cFS, F’ FPrime, or custom architectures.
• Familiarity with model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) and interface control documentation.
• Knowledge of space communication protocols (CCSDS, Space Wire, MIL‑STD‑1553, etc.).

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required up to 20% of the year.

• Equity‑Based Compensation
• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Unique Performance‑Based Bonus Structure
• Health and Wellness Stipend
• Commuter Benefits

• U.S. citizenship or nationality, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158.
• Eligibility to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Pay Range: $220,000 USD – $275,000 USD