iO Associates
Flight Software Engineer
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Flight Software Engineer
Exciting Opportunity: Flight Software Engineer (Perm/Fixed Term)
Our Client, a pioneering leader in the space industry, is shaping the future of space exploration and satellite technology. Known for their cutting-edge approach to satellite development and innovative space solutions, they foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and technological advancement. Join an organisation committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space and enjoy a supportive environment that values professional growth, diversity, and excellence.
Role Overview
Due to strategic growth and ongoing projects, Our Client is seeking a talented Flight Software Engineer to lead the development of onboard software for next-generation satellites. This pivotal role offers the chance to directly influence the safety, autonomy, and performance of spacecraft operating in low Earth orbit. Be part of a venture that's transforming satellite capabilities, and contribute to groundbreaking projects with real-world impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, test, and maintain real-time flight software using programming languages such as C, C++, or Rust on RTOS or Embedded Linux platforms.
- Define interface control documents (ICDs) and create drivers and middleware for hardware interfaces including I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, and SpaceWire.
- Design and implement autonomous behaviour logic, including mode management, sequencing, and fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR).
- Ensure real-time performance through careful management of concurrency, timing, and resource utilisation within stringent constraints.
- Build verification tools and prototypes, including SIL/HIL test harnesses, simulation models, and telemetry analysis tools to validate system integrity and performance.
- Support the deployment of code from review stages through CI/CD pipelines, assisting with integration, launch operations, and secure over-the-air updates.
- Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams such as avionics, AOCS, communications, and mission planning to optimise compute, power, thermal, and storage resources.
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Essential Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in developing embedded or real-time systems in C, C++, or Rust within space or high-reliability environments.
- Strong understanding of real-time software principles, including scheduling, interrupt handling, concurrency, and deterministic behaviour.
- Hands-on experience integrating hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN-FD, GPIO) and practical debugging skills in a lab setting.
- Solid foundation in software engineering best practices: system architecture, static analysis, code reviews, CI/CD pipelines, and system observability.
- Ability to manage projects end-to-end from system requirements and design through implementation, testing, and operational support.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Familiarity with spacecraft flight software frameworks, such as cFS, F' or custom lightweight component-based architectures.
- Knowledge of fault management strategies for radiation effects, SEUs, redundancy, and safe-mode protocols.
- Experience with GNC/AOCS systems, including sensor and actuator data pipelines, control algorithms, and estimation filters.
- Exposure to digital twins, simulation environments, and SIL/HIL testing for end-to-end system validation.
- Experience supporting on-orbit operations, including spacecraft commissioning, anomaly handling, telemetry analysis, and OTA updates.
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Why Join Our Client?
- Contribute to revolutionary space technologies, including advanced ion propulsion systems and ultra-low Earth orbit satellites that will redefine the future of space communication and observation.
- Take ownership of critical components across the entire satellite lifecycle, from design to deployment and ongoing operation.
- Enjoy a comprehensive package that values your contribution, with options for equity participation, private healthcare, and dental and optical coverage.
- Benefit from a flexible hybrid working model, with one remote working day per week.
- Receive assistance with relocation and visa sponsorship for international candidates wishing to join their innovative team.
If you are passionate about space, possess the qualifications listed, and are eager to make a tangible difference in the realm of satellite technology, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV to apply for this exciting opportunity and become part of a team that's reaching for the stars.
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