Software Engineer (Starfall)

United States Digital Space LLC; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock incentives

401(k) plan

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

Paid time off and holidays

Parental leave and other discounts

Job summary

United States Digital Space LLC is seeking a Software Engineer (Starfall) to design and implement software and firmware for avionics systems. You will help ensure systems launch reliably, and you will work across teams on mission-critical aerospace projects.

The role emphasizes C/C++ development, microcontroller work, Linux scripting, and strong collaboration. ITAR requirements apply; exciting stock incentives and comprehensive benefits accompany a competitive salary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, engineering, math, physics, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in writing software in lieu of a degree.
• 1+ years of experience in software development with C++ or C languages.
• Development experience with microcontrollers; strong C++ fundamentals; knowledge of computer architecture and networks.
• Linux and bash shell scripting; verification methodologies; excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary environments and bring fresh ideas to aerospace problems.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver high-quality software and firmware for common processors and micro-controllers.
• Support launch operations and collaborate with peers and customers.
• Bring up and validate devices that communicate to and fly in space.
• Analyze test results and bugs requiring in-depth investigations.
• Hands‑on integration and troubleshooting of flight hardware/software systems.
• Work in a dynamic environment with changing needs and challenges.

Skills

C/C++

Linux scripting

Software verification

Collaboration

Documentation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/engineering/math/physics or related field

2+ years of professional software experience in lieu of degree

Tools

NXP microcontrollers

Microcontroller development

Job description

the company was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today the company is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER (STARFALL)

As a Software Engineer on the Starfall Engineering organization, you will design and implement software and firmware for the next generation of avionics systems at the company. You will be responsible for ensuring your system behaves as expected and troubleshoot when necessary. You will have a direct impact on our ability to launch the company systems frequently, safely, and reliably.

Aerospace experience is not required to be successful here - we want our engineers to bring fresh ideas from all areas. We look for engineers who love solving problems and seek to make an impact on an inspiring mission. As we expand this team, we're looking for versatile, motivated, and collaborative engineers. Our team is involved in designing the vehicle systems at every phase of development. Our software engineers are responsible for the life cycle of the software they create, including development, testing, and operational support.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and deliver high-quality software and firmware for common processors and micro-controllers
• Support launch operations
• Collaborate with peers and customers
• Bring up and validate devices that communicate to and fly-in space
• Analyze test results and bugs which require in-depth investigations
• Hands‑on integration and troubleshooting of flight hardware/software systems
• Work in a dynamic environment with changing needs, requirements, and challenges

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, engineering, math, physics, or scientific discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in writing software in lieu of a degree
• 1+ years of experience in software development with C++ or C languages

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Development experience with microcontrollers
• Strong software engineering fundamentals in C++
• Solid fundamental knowledge of computer architecture and networks
• Familiarity with NXP microcontrollers
• Commitment to high standard of software development, including adherence to software process and best practices
• Linux and bash shell scripting
• Understanding of verification methodologies
• Excellent communication & documentation skills, and ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary environments

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be available to work extended hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay Range:

• Level 1: $125,000 - $150,000
• Level 2: $145,000 - $175,000

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at the company. You may also be eligible for long‑term incentives, in the form of company stock or long‑term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long‑term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

ITAR REQUIREMENTS

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

the company is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with the company is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, 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.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of the company’s affirmative action plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to [e-mail].