Head of Vehicle Software

EVONA; California (MO); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering aerospace company in California seeks a senior leader for software development on their new orbital launch vehicle. This opportunity includes ownership of critical software systems, from embedded avionics to test and release infrastructure. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in building software for complex cyber-physical systems, such as rockets or robots, and will play a pivotal role in shaping the software architecture. The position involves leading a rapidly growing team in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in building software for complex vehicles.
• Strong understanding of safety-critical and embedded software.
• Experience leading large technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Own all software running on the vehicle.
• Shape the foundational software architecture.
• Lead and scale a multi-team organization.

Skills

Embedded avionics expertise

Real-time flight systems knowledge

Simulation and test automation skills

Experience with distributed control systems

Leadership in a multi-team organization

Job description

We’re supporting a well‑funded, next‑generation aerospace company building a new orbital launch vehicle from first principles.

This is a senior leadership role owning all software that runs on the vehicle, from embedded avionics and real‑time flight systems to simulation, test, release, and deployment infrastructure.

We’re looking for someone who has done this before, ideally having built and flown software for a complex vehicle (rockets, spacecraft, satellites, autonomy, robotics, automotive, or similar cyber‑physical systems).

A rare opportunity to shape the foundational software architecture of a launch vehicle with real ownership, autonomy, and long‑term upside.

Scope Includes

• Safety‑critical flight and embedded software across dozens of custom computers
• Distributed, real‑time control systems (flight, GNC integration, vehicle networks, telemetry)
• Simulation, HIL/SIL, test automation, and release readiness
• Leading and scaling a multi‑team organisation (currently ~25, growing rapidly)