Software & Simulation Test Design Engineer

We are seeking a Software & Simulation Test Design Engineer to architect and lead the development of a unified test software framework and simulation that ensures consistency, scalability, and reliability across global engineering teams. This role is central to establishing standardized testing practices, simulation environments, and automation infrastructure that enable high-confidence validation of mission-critical systems.

You will define test software across the organization-creating a cohesive ecosystem that spans simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), integration, and system-level testing-while enabling teams in different regions to operate efficiently within a shared framework.

Key Responsibilities

Test Framework Architecture: Design and evolve a modular, global test framework supporting unit, integration, system, and simulation-based testing. Define reusable abstractions, APIs, and libraries for consistent implementation, including fault injection scenarios such as sensor dropouts, thruster misfires, and communication delays.

Simulation & Test Infrastructure: Architect scalable simulation environments and virtual testbeds with seamless HIL/SIL integration, covering orbital mechanics, space environments (vacuum, radiation, thermal), and spacecraft dynamics including attitude control and propulsion.

Global Standardization & GovernanceEstablish: common testing strategies, naming conventions, data formats, and reporting standards across regions. Define quality metrics, coverage standards, and quality gates; lead architecture and test design reviews to enforce best practices.

Automation & CI/CD: Build and standardize automated test pipelines within CI/CD workflows, ensuring tests are reliable, reproducible, and scalable across distributed environments.

Performance & Mission Scenario Testing: Ensure test systems support large-scale simulations, high data throughput, and long-duration runs - including thousands of simulated missions across launch windows, environmental variations, and anomaly scenarios. Optimize for speed, determinism, and debuggability.

Cross-Functional Leadership: Collaborate with global engineering teams to drive adoption of the test framework. Contribute to resource estimation, schedule planning, and risk identification. Embody ispace values - Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Collaboration, and Accountability - and stay current on emerging tools and methodologies.

Basic Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of software engineering experience with significant focus on test systems or infrastructure
• Proven track record designing scalable test frameworks or platforms
• Strong programming skills in Python, C++, Java, or similar
• Experience with automated testing, CI/CD systems, and test orchestration tools
• Solid understanding of software V&V principles
• Familiarity with ITAR/EAR requirements for sharing technical data internationally

What Makes You Stand Out

• Experience with simulation environments (MATLAB/Simulink, ROS, or custom platforms) and HIL/SIL testing
• Background in safety-critical industries (aerospace, automotive, robotics, or defense)
• Knowledge of distributed systems, cloud-based test infrastructure, and LabVIEW
• Familiarity with orbital mechanics, control theory, and embedded flight software constraints
• Experience interpreting telemetry and simulation data outputs
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities; willingness to travel (<10>

Compensation and Benefits

We welcome candidates with diverse experience levels and evaluate the best fit on an individual basis. Your final job level and salary will be determined based on your skills, experience, and the impact you can bring to the role.

JG4- $101,000- $151,000

JG5 - $126,000-$189,000

·Health Coverage: Competitive medical, vision, and dental plans, with 100% company-paid options available for employees.

·Hybrid Work: Flexibility to work remotely and in-office, depending on your role and the stage of our program.

·Commuter Perks: Company-paid RTD EcoPass for buses and light rail.

·Lunch Perks: Monthly stipend to enjoy meals from our café.

·Paid Time Off: 18 vacation days, 6 sick days, and 17 paid holidays.

· Retirement: 401(k) plan with company matching.

·Travel: Opportunities for domestic and international travel.

·Stock Options: Participation in our stock option program.

·Learning & Development: Ample opportunities to grow, including lunch-and-learns, skills training, and stipends for professional development.

· Team Culture: A fun and casual environment with regular team gatherings, including monthly engagement events to connect and unwind.