Senior Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Axiom Space; United States; On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space is seeking a Senior Embedded Linux Software Engineer to design and implement high-performance DMA drivers and kernel components for FPGA interfaces, collaborating with hardware teams on SoC constraints for edge computing platforms.

The role emphasizes Linux kernel development, DMA Engine API, and embedded networking, with unit/integration tests and documentation, in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment at the frontier of space technology.

Qualifications

• 5+ years embedded Linux software in production environments.
• Expert proficiency in C programming, Linux kernel architecture, and kernel driver development.
• Experience designing DMA platform drivers (scatter-gather, cyclic, memory-to-memory).
• Strong understanding of SoC architectures (AXI, AHB, APB) and memory hierarchies.
• Embedded networking expertise (TCP/IP, UDP) for edge/IoT platforms.
• Device tree, HALs, and hardware-software integration experience.
• Realtime systems, deterministic software and performance optimization.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain Linux-based DMA platform drivers for FPGA interfaces.
• Architect, implement, and optimize low-level kernel drivers that interface directly with FPGA hardware.
• Collaborate with hardware engineering teams to optimize software performance within SoC constraints.
• Develop, implement, and tune embedded networking stacks for edge computing platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware-software integration issues using test/debug tools.
• Contribute to Linux kernel upstream development and maintain internal patches.
• Develop and execute unit, integration, and performance tests; document APIs and architectures.

Skills

C programming

Linux kernel

DMA drivers

SoC architectures

Embedded networking

Device tree

RT systems

Kernel debugging

Job description

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com. Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Senior Embedded Linux Software Engineer who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.

POSITION SUMMARY

To thrive at Axiom Space, you must excel in a dynamic and technically complex environment. We are seeking a resilient, driven, and highly energetic Senior Embedded Linux Software Engineer with extensive experience in low-level platform driver development and system-on-chip (SoC) architectures. In this role, you will develop high-performance Direct Memory Access (DMA) drivers and advanced embedded networking solutions that enable the next generation of edge computing technologies.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, develop, and maintain Linux-based DMA platform drivers for FPGA interfaces
• Architect, implement, and optimize low-level kernel drivers that interface directly with FPGA hardware
• Collaborate closely with hardware engineering teams to understand SoC architectural constraints and optimize software performance accordingly
• Develop, implement, and tune embedded networking stacks for resource-constrained edge computing platforms
• Diagnose and resolve complex hardware-software integration issues using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and Linux kernel debugging tools
• Contribute to Linux kernel upstream development and maintain internal kernel patches and custom enhancements
• Develop and execute unit tests, integration tests, and performance benchmarks to ensure driver reliability, functionality, and efficiency
• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for driver APIs, system architectures, and hardware/software integration procedures
• Communicate project progress, status updates, risks, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership teams
• Support the implementation and continuous improvement of Agile project management practices throughout the project lifecycle
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure timely delivery of project objectives and technical milestones
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience

• 5+ years of experience developing embedded Linux software in complex, production environments
• Expert proficiency in C programming, Linux kernel architecture, and kernel driver development
• Demonstrated experience designing and developing Direct Memory Access (DMA) platform drivers, including scatter-gather, cyclic, and memory-to-memory transfer implementations
• Deep understanding of System-on-Chip (SoC) architectures, including AXI, AHB, and APB bus topologies, memory hierarchies, cache coherency mechanisms, and interconnect fabrics
• Strong expertise in embedded networking, including TCP/IP, UDP, and custom communication protocols optimized for edge computing and IoT platforms
• Hands-on experience with device tree development, hardware abstraction layers (HALs), and hardware-software integration
• Proficiency with Linux kernel subsystems and frameworks, including the DMA Engine API, networking stack, interrupt handling, and memory management
• Solid understanding of real-time system requirements, deterministic software design, and performance optimization techniques
• Proven ability to drive results and deliver solutions in ambiguous, fast-paced, and rapidly evolving environments
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, exercising sound judgment to proactively address complex technical challenges
• Highly organized with a demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities, meet aggressive deadlines, and consistently deliver high-quality outcomes

Core Skills

• Passion for space and the mission
• Entrepreneurial, growth mindset
• High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally
• Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster

Core Competencies

• Accountability
• Technical Rigor
• Execution Discipline
• Pride of Delivery

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.

Requirements

This position may require access to export controlled technical data or technology subject to NASA regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). In accordance with U.S. export control laws, final candidates may be required to undergo additional export control screening to determine eligibility for access. Meeting these requirements is a condition of employment Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones

Physical Requirements

Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time) May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)

Equipment and Machines

• Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)

Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Axiom Space is building the world’s first commercial space station – Axiom Station. Serving as a cornerstone for sustained human presence in space, this next-generation orbital platform fosters groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity, and cultivates the vibrant, global space economy of tomorrow. Today, driven by the vision of leading humanity's journey off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services to the International Space Station and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and low-Earth orbit. Axiom Space is building era-defining space infrastructure that will empower our civilization to transcend Earth for the benefit of every human, everywhere.