Flight Software Engineer (Early)

Apex; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Health insurance

PTO

401(k) match

Parental leave

Lunch provided

Office Playa Vista

Stock options

Job summary

Apex Technology, Inc. is seeking a Flight Software Engineer to design and own autonomous software for our satellite buses at Playa Vista, CA. You will work with cross-functional teams across internal and external customers to deliver reliable, mission-critical systems.

Ideal candidates have 1+ years in flight software, strong Python/C++/Rust skills, and hands-on experience with real-time distributed systems. This role is on-site in Los Angeles with competitive compensation and benefits.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of flight software experience
• Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE or equivalent
• Strong proficiency in Python, C++, Rust
• Experience with real time systems on distributed hardware
• Knowledge of embedded Linux and Yocto
• Familiarity with satellite systems and protocols (CCSDS/ECSS)
• Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems
• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP) and secure communication

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and own mission critical software applications for satellite systems
• Support commissioning of spacecraft during launch and early operations
• Own spacecraft software solutions through full lifecycle from design to deployment
• Perform unit, integration, and system testing of software components
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and roadmaps

Skills

Python

C++

Rust

Real-time systems

Embedded Linux

Yocto

CCSDS

ECSS

TCP/IP

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS, EE or equivalent

Tools

Yocto

CCSDS

ECSS

TCP/IP

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a member of the flight Software team, you will design, develop, and own the software driving the autonomous operation of Apex’s satellite buses. You will be responsible for developing mission critical systems that operate reliably 24/7, ensuring that Apex’s spacecraft continue to operate in all scenarios.

In this role, you will work closely with both internal teams and external customers, aligning your solutions with company objectives and user requirements. We are looking for motivated engineers who are eager to solve complex problems with a focus on practicality and scalability, and who thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

• - Design, implement and own mission critical software applications for satellite systems.
• - Support commissioning of spacecraft during launch and early operations and ensure software systems remain functional during critical operations.
• - Own spacecraft software solutions through the full lifecycle from initial design to deployment.
• - Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of software components, identifying and resolving any defects or issues.
• - Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and technical roadmaps.

Requirements:

• - U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
• - 1+ years of total flight software experience
• - Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE or equivalent.
• - Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, Rust.
• - Experience with real time systems running on distributed hardware.
• - Knowledge of embedded Linux operating systems, system administration and creating Linux distributions (Yocto).
• - Familiarity with satellite systems and protocols, such as CCSDS, and ECSS.
• - Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems.
• - Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), secure communication systems, Protobuf and encryption.

#LI-AB1

WHY JOIN APEX?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

WHAT WE OFFER FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES:

• - Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
• - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• - Comprehensive PTO package: Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• - Competitive 401(k) plan: Generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• - 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• - Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day
• - Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
• - Your dream desk setup: All the tools you need to be your most productive self
• - World-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
• - Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/?id=ddtc_kb_article_page&sys_id=24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.