Software Engineer - On Board Processing

Open Cosmos; Harwell; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Cosmos is seeking a software engineer to design, implement, validate and maintain satellite flight software, contributing to ground tools and data platforms that power our geospatial solutions.

You will develop for Linux and RTOS-based systems, engage in code reviews, CI/CD, and cross-functional testing with Systems and Mission Operations teams to ensure reliability and mission success across space programs.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Rust or strong C/C++ with willingness to transition to Rust.
• Knowledge of Linux development environments and scripting.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automation tools.
• Secure coding and fault-tolerant design principles.
• Understanding of RTOS concepts in embedded/space software.
• Familiarity with ECSS standards and spacecraft subsystems.
• Software verification and validation and traceability.

Responsibilities

• Designing, implementing, validating, and maintaining satellite flight software
• Supporting ground tools, ensuring software is robust, traceable, and fit for the reliability demands of space missions
• Developing features for Linux and RTOS-based systems in line with mission and system requirements
• Participating in code reviews, testing campaigns, and CI/CD processes to ensure high software quality standards are maintained consistently throughout the development lifecycle
• Maintaining configuration control, documentation, and full software traceability throughout the development lifecycle
• Collaborating closely with Systems, Electronics, and Mission Operations teams to integrate and test subsystems, contributing technical expertise that supports effective cross-functional alignment and problem resolution
• Contributing to post-launch operations and build and integration activities
• Driving continuous improvement in architecture, design, and engineering processes, identifying and implementing changes that enhance software reliability, maintainability, and delivery efficiency

Skills

Rust

C/C++

Linux development

CI/CD pipelines

Secure coding

Spacecraft subsystems

ECSS awareness

RTOS concepts

Software verification & validation

Fault detection & recovery

Tools

GitLab

Jenkins

Docker

pytest

Job description

Aim high, go beyond!

At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…

Working in our Data Division

Our Data Division transforms satellite data into meaningful insights that drive real-world impact. Bringing together our Delivery, Image Processing, Data Platform, and Commercial teams, we develop and deliver high-quality data products, power DataCosmos — our geospatial platform — and ensure our solutions are accessible, valuable, and easy to use. By combining space technology, data science, and customer insight, the team helps organisations turn complex data into action and create positive change on Earth.

What will you be doing?

You will be:

• Designing, implementing, validating, and maintaining satellite flight software

• Supporting ground tools, ensuring software is robust, traceable, and fit for the reliability demands of space missions

• Developing features for Linux and RTOS-based systems in line with mission and system requirements

• Participating in code reviews, testing campaigns, and CI/CD processes to ensure high software quality standards are maintained consistently throughout the development lifecycle

• Maintaining configuration control, documentation, and full software traceability throughout the development lifecycle

• Collaborating closely with Systems, Electronics, and Mission Operations teams to integrate and test subsystems, contributing technical expertise that supports effective cross-functional alignment and problem resolution

• Contributing to post-launch operations and build and integration activities

• Driving continuous improvement in architecture, design, and engineering processes, identifying and implementing changes that enhance software reliability, maintainability, and delivery efficiency

What You’ll Bring

• Strong programming capability in Rust, or solid understanding in C or C++ with the motivation and ability to transition to Rust in a production environment

• Proficiency in compiled and object-oriented programming paradigms, with an emphasis on performance, reliability, and correctness

• Ability to work in Linux development environments, including scripting and command-line tooling, as part of day-to-day engineering work

• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and automation tools such as GitLab, Jenkins, Docker, and pytest, supporting consistent and efficient software delivery

• Ability to apply secure coding and fault-tolerant design principles to software development, ensuring reliability and resilience in mission-critical contexts

• Working knowledge of spacecraft subsystems including ADCS, EPS, communications, and payload systems, and how software interfaces with and supports each

• Awareness of European space engineering standards such as ECSS, and their practical implications for software development, documentation, and compliance

• Understanding of RTOS concepts and their application in embedded and space software environments

• Demonstrated familiarity with software verification and validation processes, including testing strategies and traceability requirements for mission-critical systems

• Awareness of fault detection, isolation, and recovery principles, and how these inform robust software design in space applications

For this role you can be based in any of our locations.

Why Open Cosmos?

• Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe

• A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges

• A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team

Equal opportunity employer

At Open Cosmos, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace built on respect, dignity, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively challenge bias to ensure every candidate and employee feels truly welcome. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.