Senior Communications Software Engineer

Spire Global; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A space analytics company in Glasgow is seeking a Senior Data Link Communication Research Engineer to develop data link layer firmware for satellite communication systems. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in embedded systems and strong proficiency in C/C++. This role offers a hybrid work model with collaboration across teams to enhance RF communication technology.

Benefits

Hybrid work model

Equal opportunity employer

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in embedded system development for mission-critical systems.
• Solid understanding of communication systems and information sciences.
• Experience in lab work and testing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop data link layer firmware for satellite communication systems.
• Analyze and implement communication protocols (CCSDS, DVB-S2X, etc.).
• Collaborate with the HW and FPGA teams for seamless integration.

Skills

C/C++ proficiency

Real-time operating systems (RTOS)

Strong problem-solving skills

Version control systems (e.g., Git)

Scripting languages (Python, Bash)

Education

MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

FPGA

Development kits

Spectrum Analyzer

Job description

Overview

As part of the development of a new and advanced communication system we are seeking a senior data link communication research engineer with hands on experience in embedded system and software implementation. The candidate will analyze communication link properties, design the SW architecture and implement L2 layer function on an embedded SoC to contribute to Spire’s proprietary RF communication stack that builds upon industry standards such as CCSDS TM/TC and ETSI DVB-S2.

Responsibilities

Develop data link layer firmware for satellite communication systems, including communication protocols, L2 software, and low-level drivers. Actively participate in cross-functional team meetings and adopt problem-solving approaches.

• Develop and assess L2 methods for space-to-space and space-to-ground links
• Analyze and implement communication protocols (CCSDS TM/TC, COP-1, DVB-S2X, GSE, etc.). Research and integrate state-of-the-art industry solutions.
• Conduct system and link-level studies to evaluate RF link performance in space networks. Contribute to requirements definition and interface design.
• Design, optimize, validate, and test link-level proprietary implementations.
• Implement and optimize software for L2 layer:
  • Design of firmware architecture, from top- down to block-level, integrating and interfacing with FPGA-based functions.
  • Program in C/C++, assembly, and core-specific instructions to maximize performance and data rates.
  • Collaborate closely with the L3-L5 team as well as with the FPGA engineers for seamless integration and cross-layer optimization.
• Develop embedded firmware in bare-metal, RTOS or Petalinux (Yocto) environments.
  • Interface with COTS equipment, physical layer, and upper layers.
• Contribute to low-level drivers, L2–L3 interfaces, L1 function management and scheduling, and BSP.
• Collaborate with the HW and FPGA teams, lead transmission link design, support early HW development, and actively participate in HW verification.

Qualifications / Experience

• MS (or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Computer and Communication Sciences, Communication Systems, Data Processing and Machine Learning, or related field is preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in embedded system development for mission-critical systems:
  • Proficiency in C/C++, embedded C programming language, or SIMD-based instruction.
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and Linux development.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, particularly in debugging embedded systems.
  • Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git).
  • Capability with scripting languages like Python and Bash.
• Solid understanding of communication systems and information sciences with emphasis on physical L1 and data link L2 layers:
  • Familiarity with L1 and L2 communication standards in the DVB, Wi-Fi, cellular, CCSDS, or 5G families such as GSE-DVB, DVB-S2(X) and related ETSI protocols, TC/TM and related AOS COP-1, CFDP, SCPS CCSDS protocols, as well as QUIC protocol, Space Packet protocol.
  • Ability to perform link level study for L1-L2 layers and to support interfacing upper-layers.
  • Proficiency in Matlab, digital signal processing and communications
• Experience in lab work and testing equipment (Dev. kit, JTAG, Spectrum Analyzer, VNA, Signal Generator, channel emulator.)

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of embedded system development (Xilinx FPGA, DMA, ARM architecture, PS/PL).
• Working experience with Rust/Python as well as assembly instructions.
• Flexibility and a proactive, collaborative approach, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• A positive attitude, adaptability, and openness to learning new technologies and interacting with new people.

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office.

Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying. #LI-RK1

About Spire

We improve life on Earth with data from space.

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is Global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

Kindly be advised that communication regarding your application may come from @spire.com, @recruiting.spire.com, or from Candidate.fyi (our scheduling tool).