Software Engineer

Software Engineer (Payload Software) Location: Irvine, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Onsite Salary: $155,000 – $175,000 USD, depending on experience. About The Opportunity Join an innovative space technology company developing advanced remote sensing systems and next-generation satellite payloads. This organization designs, builds, and operates cutting-edge space systems that deliver mission-critical intelligence and Earth observation capabilities for government and commercial customers.

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to design, develop, and integrate payload software for advanced spacecraft systems. In this role, you will work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop embedded software that supports the complete payload lifecycle—from architecture and implementation through integration, testing, and deployment.

This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges while working on mission-critical space hardware and software.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate payload software for spacecraft systems.
• Develop robust embedded software solutions supporting mission-critical payload functionality.
• Participate in the complete software development lifecycle, including requirements definition, architecture, implementation, integration, verification, and testing.
• Collaborate with systems, hardware, electrical, RF, and integration teams to ensure successful software and hardware interoperability.
• Develop and maintain Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and software documentation.
• Support software integration, debugging, and validation during spacecraft assembly and test activities.
• Troubleshoot embedded software and hardware interface issues throughout development and integration.
• Contribute to software architecture decisions and continuous improvement of development processes.

Required Qualifications

• 6+ years of professional experience developing software using C, C++, and Python.
• 6+ years of embedded software development experience.
• 6+ years of experience working with System-on-Chip (SoC) and microcontroller-based designs.
• Strong experience developing software in Embedded Linux environments, including Yocto build systems.
• Experience developing and maintaining Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• Experience implementing communication and data protocols.
• Experience supporting the complete software lifecycle from requirements development through verification and testing.
• Strong analytical, debugging, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) systems.
• Familiarity with FPGA firmware development.
• Understanding of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) systems.
• Experience supporting avionics integration and system-level testing.
• Knowledge of avionics hardware architectures.
• Experience with spacecraft or embedded system architecture.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics.

Why Join Us?

• Develop software that directly supports next-generation spacecraft and remote sensing technologies.
• Work alongside experienced multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Contribute throughout the full product lifecycle—from software architecture to spacecraft integration.
• Solve challenging technical problems while building highly reliable embedded systems for space applications.
• Be part of a collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation, quality, and mission success.

Compensation & Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits.
• Flexible paid time off.
• Collaborative engineering culture with opportunities for professional growth.

Security & Export Requirements This position may require access to export-controlled technology and the ability to meet applicable U.S. government security and compliance requirements. Candidates must be eligible to work in accordance with U.S. export control regulations.