Embedded Software Engineer – Space Systems

Our client is developing next-generation orbital platforms and autonomous payloads for space missions, combining embedded engineering, space systems and life sciences. They are seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design and implement robust, safety-critical software for flight and ground systems operating in some of the most demanding environments imaginable.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working close to the hardware, tackling technically challenging problems, and contributing directly to systems that push the boundaries of space technology.

The role involves:

• Designing, implementing and maintaining low-level embedded software for payloads and supporting ground systems

• Developing, integrating and debugging device drivers and board support packages for custom hardware

• Working with real-time operating systems (RTOS) to deliver deterministic, reliable control and data handling

• Implementing and validating communication stacks using protocols such as UART, SPI, PCI, USB and CAN

• Contributing to the design and optimisation of network stacks across all layers

• Collaborating with electronics, systems and science teams to define interfaces and ensure end-to-end system reliability

• Participating in code reviews, requirement discussions, and documentation for both flight and ground software

Additional responsibilities (if you have project management experience):

• Planning and tracking software work packages, milestones and deliverables

• Coordinating small cross-functional efforts across software, electronics and science teams

• Contributing to improvements in development processes, roadmaps and release planning

What our client is looking for:

Essential:

• Proven experience in low-level software and embedded systems development using C++
• Strong knowledge of embedded systems, device drivers and signal processing
• Experience developing for real-time operating systems (e.g. FreeRTOS, RTEMS, VxWorks or similar)
• Hands-on experience with communication protocols such as UART, SPI, PCI, USB and CAN
• Solid understanding and practical experience with network stacks across multiple layers

Preferred:

• Knowledge of FPGA design and development (VHDL/Verilog, synthesis, timing closure, HW/SW co-design)

• Experience with software quality control, including unit testing for embedded systems and CI/CD pipelines

• Experience with SPARC architectures or space software development (ECSS standards, fault tolerance, radiation effects)

• Software project management experience, including leading small project streams, Agile/Scrum/Kanban processes, and coordinating with external partners