Lead Flight Software Engineer (Rust/C/C++)

Open Cosmos; Harwell; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Cosmos seeks a Flight Software Lead to own software design from concept to flight across onboard and ground systems. You will define architectures, implement embedded code in Rust, C, and C++, and lead reviews to ensure compliance with space standards.

You will oversee system-level integration, mentor engineers, and drive CI/CD, testing automation, and documentation to ensure mission readiness for multiple satellite missions.

Qualifications

• Deep expertise in Rust, with proficiency in C/C++ and embedded systems.
• Familiarity with space protocols (CCSDS, telemetry/telecommand).
• Strong grasp of software assurance, fault detection, and recovery design.
• Experience with CI/CD, testing automation, and configuration management.
• A structured yet creative approach, balancing precision with problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of flight software for new satellite platforms and missions.
• Define software interfaces, patterns, and frameworks for onboard and ground systems using Rust, C, and C++.
• Oversee system-level integration and testing of flight software across multiple missions.
• Implement and review mission-critical features such as fault tolerance, safe modes, and autonomous recovery.
• Mentor junior engineers, ensuring best practices in coding standards, version control, CI/CD, and documentation.
• Drive design and code reviews, ensuring compliance with ECSS, DO-178C, and Open Cosmos software assurance standards.
• Collaborate with hardware, systems, and operations teams to optimise performance and ensure mission readiness.

Skills

Rust

C/C++

Embedded systems

Space protocols

CI/CD

Testing automation

ECSS/DO-178C

Fault tolerance

Mentoring

Job description

Open Cosmos seeks a Flight Software Lead to own software design from concept to flight across onboard and ground systems. You will define architectures, implement embedded code in Rust, C, and C++, and lead reviews to ensure compliance with space standards.

You will oversee system-level integration, mentor engineers, and drive CI/CD, testing automation, and documentation to ensure mission readiness for multiple satellite missions.