Principal Embedded Software Engineer

The role

The Principal Embedded Software Engineer will lead the architecture, development, and integration of embedded software across multiple satellite programs. This role involves developing embedded software for Linux, RTOS, and bare metal systems to support satellite modules and specialized payloads.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain embedded software and support hardware bring-up on satellite modules.
• Architect, design, develop, and maintain embedded software (Linux, RTOS, bare metal) for satellite systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define and refine software requirements.
• Serve as the technical lead for multiple satellite programs.
• Create and maintain unit tests using Test-Driven Development methodologies.
• Develop and automate system-level tests.
• Build software for specialized payloads including imagers, image processors, communication devices, and astronomical science instruments.
• Integrate and test software in simulation, flight-replica, flight-vehicle, and hardware-in-the-loop environments.
• Lead and mentor junior software engineers.
• Represent Terran Orbital in technical working groups and customer interactions.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
• 12+ years of experience developing C/C++ applications for embedded, high-performance, or mission-critical systems.
• Experience with bare-metal and/or RTOS-based designs (FreeRTOS, internal schedulers, etc.).
• Deep understanding of microcontroller architectures, peripheral subsystems, and low-level interface design across multiple MCU families.
• Experience with electronic test equipment and embedded debug tools (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, hardware debuggers, etc.).
• Experience with serial communication protocols (CAN, RS-232/422/485, I2C, SPI, PCI).
• Highly motivated, self-starting, responsible, thorough, and able to perform duties autonomously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance.
• Ability to lift or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 25 pounds.

Nice to have

• Master’s degree
• Experience with ARM and Texas Instruments embedded platforms.
• Experience with oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other test equipment.
• Experience with Linux and GNU tools such as Make, GCC, and GDB.
• Experience with scripting languages such as Bash and Python.
• Familiarity with build pipelines, deployment processes, and on-target testing.
• Familiarity with SOLID software design principles.

Benefits

• 100% Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Match
• Flexible Time Off (FTO)
• Education Reimbursement
• Competitive Paid Parental Leave
• Employee referrals
• Swag

Before you apply

• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of St
• Position may require a current United States National Security clearance or eligibility for such a clearance.

About the company

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries. They provide end-to-end satellite solutions including design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support.