Senior Embedded Software Engineer

Spire Global, Inc.; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Spire Global, Inc. seeks an experienced Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join the Platform team supporting Spacecraft Operations. You will design, implement and test embedded firmware, collaborating across engineering functions to ensure robust satellite systems and on-orbit reliability.

The role emphasizes rapid design-to-launch cycles in a nanosatellite environment, with a hybrid work model requiring three days in the office per week.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Proficiency with Embedded C programming language.
• Proficiency with scripting languages like Python and Bash.
• Extensive experience with RTOS, specifically FreeRTOS.
• Familiarity with serial protocols and implementations.
• Strong problem-solving skills in debugging embedded systems.
• Experience with version control systems (Git).
• A base level of mathematical knowledge (engineering math).
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and test, deploy and maintain embedded firmware.
• Collaborate with other engineering functions on scoping, architecture and system design.
• Resolve on-orbit and on-ground issues related to embedded systems.
• Implement, optimize and maintain various serial protocols.
• Design and develop interface tools to improve abstraction between the embedded system and other satellite components.
• Debug and resolve complex embedded systems issues in a timely manner.
• Write and maintain technical documentation.

Skills

Embedded C

Python

Bash

RTOS: FreeRTOS

Serial protocols

Debugging embedded systems

Mathematics

Communication & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science / Electrical Engineering

Mastery of Embedded C programming

Tools

GNU ARM Embedded Toolchain

GDB

Git

Serial debugging tools

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to join our Platform team supporting Spacecraft Operations. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting other disciplines by focusing on the embedded software aspects of our satellite systems. The Platform team interfaces directly with many engineering groups to conduct R&D, design, manufacturing, and operations activities, ultimately ensuring all current and future spacecraft systems satisfy their mission.

Ideal candidates will embrace the commercialization of nanosatellite systems and adapt to low-cost, fast-paced systems design, development, and implementationmethodologies that set Spire apart from our competition. In this fast-pacedenvironment, the design to launch cycle is measured in weeks and months, notyears!

What You’ll Do as a Senior Embedded Software Engineer:

• Design, implement and test, deploy and maintain embedded firmware
• Collaborate with other engineering functions on scoping, architecture andsystem design
• Resolve on-orbit and on-ground issues related to embedded systems
• Implement, optimize and maintain various serial protocols
• Design and develop interface tools to improve abstraction between theembedded system and other satellite components
• Debug and resolve complex embedded systems issues in a timely manner
• Write and maintain technical documentation

Key Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Mastery of Embedded C programming language
• Proficiency with scripting languages like Python and Bash
• Extensive experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), specifically FreeRTOS
• Familiarity with serial protocols and implementations
• Strong problem-solving skills, particularly in debugging embedded systems
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git)
• A base level of mathematical knowledge (engineering mathematic or similar)
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with space systems or satellite technology
• Familiarity working to coding standards and using static analysis tools
• Experience writing Rust for resource constrained environments (embedded Linux)
• Experience with embedded Linux
• Knowledge of control systems and algorithms

Tools and Technologies:

• FreeRTOS for real-time operating system implementation
• GNU ARM Embedded Toolchain for code compilation
• GDB for debugging, complemented by extensive use of serial and/or CAN debugging
• Experience with debugging techniques for systems without JTAG access, particularly for remote issue resolution
• Familiarity with manual testing procedures for embedded interface code
• Experience working with Arm Cortex Microcontrollers
• Version control using Git

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.

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.

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.

We can’t always guarantee availability, and some roles may require more specific gear - but when we can, we like to align with your preferences!