Flight Software Engineer - Embedded Linux & Networking

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly skilled Flight Software Engineer – Embedded Linux & Networking to design, develop, and support embedded software systems for advanced aerospace platforms. This role focuses on building and optimizing Linux-based networking capabilities within mission-critical environments, contributing to system architecture, integration, and performance of complex embedded systems.Key Responsibilities:Design, develop, and maintain embedded Linux software, including board support packages (BSPs), device drivers, and system-level integrationLead development of networking subsystems, including protocol stacks, network drivers, and communication interfacesCollaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define system interfaces and ensure seamless hardware/software integrationContribute to and uphold embedded software architecture standards, best practices, and coding guidelinesParticipate in full software development lifecycle, including design, coding, testing, integration, and deploymentSupport simulation and testing environments to validate networking behavior and system performanceDiagnose and resolve complex technical issues across hardware and software boundariesConduct code reviews and provide mentorship to junior engineers to ensure quality and consistencyDevelop and maintain technical documentation, including architecture decisions and system specificationsQualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical fieldExperience: A minimum of 5+ years of professional experience in software engineering with a strong focus on embedded Linux systemsPreferred Qualifications:Experience with real-time or performance-constrained embedded systemsFamiliarity with advanced networking concepts and custom communication protocolsExposure to secure software development practices or embedded system securityExperience working on high-reliability or mission-critical systemsBackground in wireless communication or distributed network architecturesExperience with GPU computing or parallel processing technologiesSoft Skills:Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teamsProven ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectivelyExcellent written and verbal communication skillsStrong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilitiesMeticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design and implementationAbility to lead technical discussions and influence architecture decisionsAdaptability and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environmentTechnology Stack:Programming languages: C, C++, PythonEmbedded Linux systems and kernel developmentNetworking technologies: TCP/IP, UDP, socket programming, routingEmbedded build systems such as Yocto or BuildrootDevelopment and debugging tools (e.g., GDB, JTAG/SWD interfaces)Version control and collaboration tools (e.g., Git)Continuous integration and issue tracking tools (e.g., CI platforms, Jira or similar)Hardware debugging and diagnostic tools (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic or network analyzers)Physical RequirementsAbility to work in a standard office, lab, or hybrid engineering environmentProlonged periods of sitting and working on a computerAbility to use specialized technical equipment for testing and debugging when requiredAbility to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholdersThis job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.