Software Engineer for Space Applications

Company DescriptionSpace Robotics Workers (SRW) is focused on developing key technologies for robotics for space and Low-Earth Orbit Destinations. The company offers in-orbit services such as assembly, maintenance, manufacturing, and debris removal, with a goal to facilitate space exploration and innovation.Job DescriptionWe're looking for a Software Engineer to develop and implement embedded systems software for Space Applications. You'll be one of our first employees, working directly with our founding team to build the foundational Software that controls actuators, sensors, power systems, and data interfaces operating in the extreme environment of space.ResponsibilitiesDevelop flight-ready Software following aerospace software standards (NASA and ECSS standards)Implement command and data handling (C&DH) software for telemetry, commanding, and health monitoringDesign state machines and control logic for robotics, autonomous docking sequences, latch mechanisms, and fluid/power transfer operationsCreate bootloaders, firmware update mechanisms, and version control for in-orbit software maintenanceDevelop watchdog timers, error handling, and safe-mode recovery logicWrite software that is testable, maintainable, and documented to space industry standardsDevelop comprehensive test plans for verification and validationPerform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of embedded softwareConduct hardware-in-the-loop testing with actuators, sensors, and mechanical assembliesParticipate in environmental testing (thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation) to validate firmware performanceParticipate in design reviews, technical discussions, and system architecture decisionsCreate detailed software specifications, design documents, and interface control documents (ICDs)Support configuration management and traceability for space-qualified systemsQualifications3+ years of professional experience in embedded software development in the space or robotics industryProven experience developing embedded systems software for electromechanical components (motors, actuators, sensors, valves, etc.)Strong proficiency in Python for scripting, testing, data analysis, and rapid prototypingHands-on experience with Arduino or similar microcontroller development platformsStrong understanding of digital electronics, including ADCs, DACs, PWM, encoders, and communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, etc.)Experience with embedded C/C++ for microcontrollers and embedded processorsFamiliarity with debugging tools including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG/SWD debuggers, and multimetersBachelor’s degree in computer engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent technical fieldStrongly PreferredFlight software development experience for space systems (satellites, launch vehicles, landers, or space robotics)Aerospace software standards knowledge such as NASA or ECSS software engineering standardsSpace-qualified hardware experience with radiation-tolerant processors, FPGAs, or componentsReal-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) experience such as FreeRTOS, VxWorks, or RTEMSMotor control experience including brushless DC motors, stepper motors, servo systems, or linear actuatorsSensor integration experience with IMUs, force/torque sensors, proximity sensors, encoders, or vision systemsCommunication protocols for space or industrial applications (SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ROS, Industrail ROS/ROS 2.0)Familiarity with control theory including PID control, state-space controllers, or model-based controlSimulation and modeling tools such as MATLAB/Simulink for control system designExperience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and test automation frameworksKnowledge of power electronics and power management systemsVersion control and CI/CD experience with Git, GitLab/GitHub, and automated testing pipelinesPython libraries experience such as NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib for data analysis and visualizationPersonal AttributesHands-on problem solver: Comfortable working directly with hardware, debugging in the lab, and troubleshooting complex issuesStartup mentality: Comfortable with ambiguity, fast pace, and wearing multiple hats in an early-stage environmentCollaborative: Works effectively across disciplines (mechanical, electrical, software) and with external partnersMission-driven: Passionate about advancing space exploration and building sustainable space infrastructureStrong communicator: Can document technical work clearly and explain firmware behavior to diverse audiencesContinuous learner: Stays current with embedded systems technologies and aerospace industry best practices