The Exploration Company

Principal Flight Software Engineer

Munich, Germany. Posted 8 months ago

The role

You will lead a team of engineers to develop and validate software systems that control and operate the Nyx spacecraft. This includes managing the software stack from launch to docking, re-entry, and recovery.

What you will do

  • Lead and mentor a high-performing team of flight software engineers
  • Own the technical roadmap and execution for flight software
  • Set high standards for code quality, test coverage, and simulation fidelity
  • Drive development in modern C++ and Python
  • Oversee the development of test infrastructure including unit, integration, and hardware-in-the-loop testing
  • Own key areas of the Nyx Flight Software such as Simulation, Embedded software and firmware
  • Collaborate with systems engineering, GNC, propulsion, avionics, and mission operations
  • Participate in and lead code reviews, software audits, flight software simulations, and mission rehearsals

Required qualifications

  • Strong proficiency in modern C (Embedded/Firmware) or C++ (C++17 or newer, spacecraft software)
  • Python experience
  • Experience with real-time systems, embedded development, simulation, or spacecraft software
  • Demonstrated ability to take ownership of complex technical problems
  • Familiarity with software testing methodologies and simulation tools
  • Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and collaboration skills
  • Good understanding of math & physics
  • Focus on detail, quality, and testing
  • Experience with CI/CD systems and build systems in general

Nice to have

  • Bazel is a plus
  • Knowledge of safety critical and real-time critical software and familiarity with RTOS
  • Good understanding of communication protocols such as: TCP/IP, UART, CAN Bus and serialization
  • Experience with automotive or flight software frameworks
  • Background in orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems, simulation, or space mission lifecycle
  • Experience with industry standards such as AUTOSAR, ECSS, DO-178

Benefits

  • Relocation assistance is provided
  • Visa sponsorship where applicable

Before you apply

  • All offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check
  • The Exploration Company partners with Zinc Work Limited to ensure the background check process

About the company

The Exploration Company is building spacecraft for humanity.