{"id":673211,"url":"https://alion.io/job/observable-staff-flight-software-engineer","title":"Staff Flight Software Engineer","company":{"id":678446,"name":"Observable Space","domain":"observable.space","url":"https://alion.io/company/observable-3","size_band":"201-500","is_staffing_agency":false,"employer_type":"direct","is_intermediary":false,"listed_via":null,"ats_vendor":"Ashby","truth_index":{"grade":"B","score":78,"open_postings":9,"ghost_share":0,"stale_share":0.667,"repost_share":0,"time_to_fill_p50_days":67,"computed_at":"2026-10-28T05:59:10Z"}},"role":"Hardware","role_family":"Hardware","seniority":"staff","employment_type":"full_time","work_mode":"hybrid","remote_scope":null,"remote_scope_basis":null,"remote_working_hours":null,"hiring_geo_confidence":"structured","locations":["Los Angeles, United States"],"countries":["US"],"hiring_countries":[],"hiring_countries_total":0,"salary":{"min":180000,"max":230000,"currency":"USD","period":"year","gross":null,"usd_annual":230000},"salary_estimate":null,"experience_years_min":5,"visa_sponsorship":false,"relocation_package":false,"has_equity":true,"technologies":[{"name":"C++","optional":false},{"name":"CCSDS","optional":true},{"name":"Linux","optional":true},{"name":"MATLAB","optional":true},{"name":"Python","optional":true},{"name":"RTOS","optional":true}],"status":"live","first_seen_at":"2026-08-18T21:42:20Z","employer_posted_date":"2026-08-18","last_verified_at":"2026-10-28T14:38:19Z","board_verified":true,"closed_at":null,"days_open":70,"trust":{"level":"ok","repost_count":null,"flags":[],"days_open":70},"description":"About Observable Space\nAt Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.\nWe combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.\nObservable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.\nAbout the Role\nWe are seeking a highly-motivated and hands-on Senior Software Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you’ll design, develop, and maintain flight software systems for spacecraft and telescope platforms. You’ll work with a multidisciplinary team of electrical, mechanical, optical, and software engineers to deliver reliable, fault-tolerant systems for ground-based and potential future space-based deployment.\nWhat You'll Do\nDesign and develop flight software for spacecraft and telescope systems, including command, control, and data handling (C&DH).\n\nBuild and maintain software that interfaces directly with hardware components, sensors, and onboard subsystems.\n\nArchitect systems for high reliability, fault tolerance, and long-duration autonomous operation.\n\nImplement communication protocols for telemetry, command uplink/downlink, and system coordination.\n\nCollaborate with electrical and hardware teams to ensure seamless integration between software and physical systems.\n\nSupport hardware bring-up, integration, and debugging at the hardware/software boundary.\n\nDevelop and implement fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) mechanisms.\n\nSupport system testing, including simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), and validation activities.\n\nParticipate in and contribute to design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) and internal documentation.\n\nProvide engineering support during integration, testing, and system validation.\n\nWhat You'll Bring\nBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.\n\n5+ years of experience in software engineering, embedded systems, or systems-level development.\n\nStrong programming skills in C/C++ or similar low-level languages.\n\nExperience developing software for embedded or hardware-integrated systems.\n\nUnderstanding of real-time systems, concurrency, and performance optimization.\n\nFamiliarity with communication protocols and networking fundamentals.\n\nStrong debugging and problem-solving skills.\n\nEffective communicator and collaborator.\n\nDemonstrated passion for aerospace, robotics, or complex systems.\n\nPreferred Qualifications\nExperience developing flight software for spacecraft, satellites, or aerospace systems.\n\nFamiliarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or embedded Linux environments.\n\nUnderstanding of fault-tolerant system design and reliability engineering.\n\nExperience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and simulation environments.\n\nFamiliarity with space communication standards (e.g., CCSDS).\n\nExperience working in fast-paced, early-stage or startup environments.\n\nBasic scripting or automation (Python, MATLAB) for testing or data analysis.\n\nWhat We Offer\nCompetitive Compensation - A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.\nEquity Opportunities - Take part in our success with stock options.\nFlexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)\nUnlimited PTO (exempt only) - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.\nHealth & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.\nCutting-Edge Tools - Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.\nMission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.\nInclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.\nObservable Space is an equal opportunity employer. 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