Intuitive Machines is seeking a motivated and experienced Software Systems Engineer to join our team in Palo Alto, CA. This role requires application of systems engineering principles to the design, development, and integration of software systems within a broader system context. The ideal candidate will proactively work with customer stakeholders, systems and subsystem engineers, and ensure that software development is aligned with the overall system goals, architecture, and operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Requirements Engineering – Analyze ConOps, systems and sub‑system specifications, decompose, generate, and allocate flight software requirements in alignment with system objectives.
- Architecture Design – Define high‑level software architecture that supports the system’s functional and non‑functional requirements and aligns with systems safety considerations.
- Integration – Coordinate with the flight software architects and development team to ensure software components work seamlessly with other system components.
- Validation and Verification – Develop integrated use cases to confirm software meets specifications and performs as intended in the system context.
- Model‑Based Development – Develop models using UML and SysML to represent system and software architecture, enabling early requirements validation and early detection of integration issues.
- Stakeholder Management – Lead technical meetings and discussions with customers, representing software systems engineering perspectives for trade studies and technical initiatives from concepts through implementation.
Minimum Required Qualifications
- Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident.
- Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
- 8+ years of experience in systems engineering and/or software systems engineering.
- Ability to travel occasionally for customer reviews and technical meetings.
- Proficiency in C/C++ programming and object‑oriented programming principles.
- Familiarity with embedded operating systems (VxWorks, FreeRTOS, cFS).
- Overall knowledge of spacecraft subsystems (e.g., ADCS, C&DH, power, propulsion, payload).
- Demonstrated experience with requirements management tools and processes (e.g., JAMA, DOORS).
- Understanding of V&V methodologies and practices.
- Proven ability to lead technical discussions with customers and stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
- Experience with Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) – SysML and UML modeling.
- Familiarity with spacecraft mission lifecycles.
- Excellent communication skills across technical and non‑technical audiences.
- Self‑motivated, fast learner, proven ability to take initiative and drive results.
- Ability to work effectively in ambiguous environments and openness to using new tools to improve processes and efficiency.
- Experience with Interface Control Document (ICD) development, trade study analysis, and decision matrices.
- INCOSE CSEP certification or equivalent.
Compensation and Benefits
Base pay for this position within California is $143,000.00 – $238,000.00 annually. Additional benefits include paid time off, health and wellness insurance, and 401(k) to eligible employees. The position is incentive eligible with a target based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results achieved.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.