Spacecraft Flight Software Engineer

Quantum Space; Rockville (MD); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Equity sharing

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

A space technology company in Rockville, Maryland, is seeking a Spacecraft Flight Software Engineer. This full-time position requires developing and integrating flight software for embedded systems in spacecraft. Ideal candidates will have a BS in Computer Science or related field, proficiency in C++ and Python, and experience in Linux environments. Competitive compensation and benefits are offered. Join us to shape the future of autonomy in space exploration.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with C++ or another object-oriented programming language.
• Proficiency in Python for scripting, testing, and automation.
• Experience with Git and Git-based workflows such as GitLab.

Responsibilities

• Develop flight and payload software for embedded spacecraft systems.
• Debug and integrate software with hardware subsystems.
• Document software behaviours, interfaces, and workflows.

Skills

C++

Python

Linux development

Shell scripting

Git

Education

BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field

Tools

Docker

VxWorks

GitLab

Job description

Join to apply for the Spacecraft Flight Software Engineer role at Quantum Space

This range is provided by Quantum Space. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$95,000.00/yr - $135,000.00/yr

Additional compensation types

Annual Bonus and Stock options

Senior Technical Recruiter | Building High-Performing Engineering Teams

Who We’re Looking For

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy in cislunar and geostationary space. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta‑V and on‑orbit maneuverability that enable customers to access, operate, and persist in orbits previously out of reach. We’re building the infrastructure, vehicles, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.

We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software that powers our spacecraft and payload systems. You will work across subsystem teams to implement flight behaviours, command sequences, and on‑orbit functionality that directly impact mission success. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast‑paced, iterative environment and who enjoys working at the interface of software, hardware, and operations.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

• Develop flight and payload software for embedded spacecraft systems running VxWorks and Linux.
• Debug and integrate software with hardware subsystems across a variety of communication interfaces and protocols.
• Collaborate with avionics, payload, propulsion, and GNC leads to implement subsystem behaviours in flight software.
• Work with mission operations and ground software teams to design scheduling logic, command sequences, and autonomous behaviours.
• Support hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) testing, system integration, and functional verification of spacecraft software.
• Document software behaviours, interfaces, and workflows to ensure cross‑functional alignment across engineering teams.
• Operate effectively in a schedule‑driven, rapid development environment.

What It Takes

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience with C++ or another object‑oriented programming language.
• Proficiency in Python for scripting, testing, and automation.
• Strong experience working in a Linux development environment, including but not limited to:
  • Shell scripting (bash)
  • Networking/IP
  • Serial/UART interactions
• Experience with Git and Git‑based workflows such as GitLab.
• Familiarity with Agile software development processes.
• Ability to rapidly understand, navigate, and contribute to a large, previously developed codebase.

Nice to Have

• 5+ years of C++ development experience.
• Experience developing flight software or other spacecraft‑related software (ground tools, test frameworks, payload apps).
• Background in embedded systems development.
• Experience with Docker or other containerization tools.
• Familiarity with common spacecraft interfaces such as I2C, RS‑422/485, LVDS, SpaceWire, MIL‑1553, Ethernet.
• Experience with Rocket Lab MAX FSW.
• Hands‑on experience with VxWorks or other real‑time operating systems (RTOS).

What You’ll Get

• Ownership – Build and shape the core software that executes on orbit and drives our mission capabilities.
• Impact – Contribute directly to spacecraft behaviour, autonomy, and mission execution.
• Innovation – Work across hardware, software, and operations to develop the next generation of on‑orbit systems.
• Growth – Expand your technical depth in embedded systems, flight software, and spacecraft operations.
• Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing, Space Research and Technology, and Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing

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