Software Engineer, Operating Systems

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and own mission-critical satellite software across architecture, development, deployment, and operations.
• Develop, configure, and maintain embedded Linux platforms and bootloader frameworks using technologies such as Yocto, Buildroot, WolfBoot, and U-Boot.
• Design, implement, and validate firmware update mechanisms, including secure deployment, bootloader integration, and recovery procedures.
• Implement security enhancements that improve software integrity, resilience, and secure spacecraft operation.
• Collaborate with mission operations, GNC, and hardware teams on system architecture, prototyping, avionics bring-up, integration, and debugging.

Requirements

• U.S. Person status is required, or the candidate must be able to obtain the necessary export authorizations.
• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 2 years of experience writing operating-system code, ideally with Yocto or embedded Linux for spacecraft, robotics, automotive, or other hardware interacting with the physical world.
• Strong proficiency in Python, C++, or Rust.
• Preferred qualifications include at least 1 year of flight software experience and experience with satellite software, embedded Linux, bootloaders, avionics bring-up, hardware/software integration, schematic analysis, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spacecraft attitude-control systems, firmware updates, and secure systems.

Benefits

• Equity and eligibility for long-term stock options.
• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents, plus $100,000 of life insurance at no cost.
• Paid time off starting at 15 vacation days and growing to 20 or more days annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan with matching contributions.
• Eight weeks of paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement of up to $350 per day for work-related travel.
• Daily catered lunch, unlimited snacks, office socials, recreational activities, and family gatherings.
• In-person work at the Playa Vista office with flexibility to integrate work and life.
• Full-time employment with tools and equipment provided for the role.