Sr Embedded Software engineer

Confidential Opportunity

Sr Embedded Software engineer

This Sr Embedded Software Engineering role in Poway, California, with a confidential employer offers the chance to work on cutting-edge satellite hardware. You'll thrive in a small engineering team where decisions happen fast and your technical impact is immediate. If you excel in low-level embedded systems, this is your next career move.

Role Snapshot

CompanyConfidential Employer


LocationPoway, California, USA


IndustryAerospace / Defense


Compensation$160,000 - $180,000 per year


Employment TypeFull Time/Direct Hire


Remote StatusNo Remote


Total Openings1


Work Experience7 - 15 years



Opportunity

Imagine your code powering the next generation of satellites, orbiting Earth and pushing the boundaries of space exploration. This confidential employer in Poway, California, builds spacecraft hardware that matters, and they need a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to take ownership of mission-critical software. If you've ever wanted to see your work launch into orbit, this is the role for you.

You will design and implement low-level embedded software across the full stack: from bootloaders and BSPs to device drivers and test automation. Using C, Python, and real-time operating systems like VxWorks and RTEMS, you'll solve complex integration challenges, debug hardware-software interfaces, and ensure reliability in harsh environments. Your code will interact directly with satellite avionics, flight computers, and ground support equipment, making your contribution both tangible and high-stakes.

The ideal engineer brings over a decade of embedded systems experience, proven fluency in C and Python, and deep familiarity with VxWorks, Linux, and bare-metal development. You're equally comfortable architecting a bootloader or scripting a test GUI in Python. You thrive in a collaborative environment where senior engineers work side-by-side with leadership to make fast, informed decisions. If you enjoy mentoring, driving process improvements, and tackling problems that no textbook can solve, you'll fit right in.

This is not a crowded corporate role. You'll be part of a tight-knit team where your voice is heard, your designs are trusted, and your growth is limited only by your ambition. With a salary range of $160K-$180K, relocation support, and the chance to shape space technology, this opportunity stands out. If you're ready to build the brains of tomorrow's satellites, apply today and let's start the conversation.

Non-Negotiables

• You must be fluent in C and Python with a strong background in VxWorks, Linux, and Bare Metal embedded development
• You have experience developing bootloaders, BSP, and device drivers for VxWorks 7, Linux, or RTEMS
• You are familiar with Buildroot or Yocto Linux build systems
• You possess a deep understanding of NAND FLASH memory file systems, drivers, and implementation
• You are skilled at low-level hardware code development and debugging using debuggers or in-circuit emulators
• You have hands-on experience debugging with lab equipment and other tools
• You can collaborate effectively in a team setting and solve problems analytically

What's In It For You

• The role offers a competitive base salary between $160,000 and $180,000 per year
• Relocation assistance is provided to help you settle in Poway, California
• You'll work on the latest satellite technology in a booming industry with strong growth prospects
• The team is small and agile, giving you direct access to decision-makers and a real impact on products
• You'll enjoy a hands-on engineering culture that rewards creativity and technical excellence
• Full-time, direct-hire position with stability and room for career advancement
• Comprehensive benefits package available

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise to tackle complex software challenges and introduce new technical capabilities within the engineering department
• Design, develop, document, and test embedded software for space products, from bootloaders to BSPs and device drivers
• Develop C or assembly code for VxWorks 6.9/7.0, Embedded Linux, and RTEMS device drivers
• Debug, test, and verify component and board designs through software, and create test programs and verification plans
• Represent the engineering team in technical customer discussions and meetings
• Assist manufacturing engineers with production issues, providing software-level troubleshooting
• Develop and maintain Python-based desktop GUI applications to control and monitor automated test equipment using pyvisa and nidaqmx

Preferred Qualifications

• A Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field is a strong plus
• Prior experience working on satellite or space flight hardware is highly desirable
• Expertise in creating and maintaining Python-based test automation frameworks
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum development practices in embedded environments
• Experience with formal software development processes and documentation standards
• Demonstrated ability to lead small teams or mentor junior engineers
• Knowledge of real-time operating systems beyond VxWorks and Linux, such as RTEMS

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