Staff Flight Software Engineer

True Anomaly, Inc.; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 270,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage (company-paid)

PTO & paid holidays

401(k) retirement plan

Parental Leave

Dog Fridays

Job summary

True Anomaly, Inc. is seeking a Staff Flight Software Engineer to contribute across the spacecraft program lifecycle—from design to flight testing. You will work on onboard computers, processing units, and ground interfaces within a fast, innovative culture.

The role emphasizes embedded C/C++ and Python, RTOS familiarity, and safe, robust space-grade software development. Expect collaboration with C2 teams and hands-on hardware integration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related field; 6+ years in firmware architecture and development.
• Low-level device driver development and safety-critical systems experience.
• Experience with embedded RTOS (RTLinux/Azure RTOS).
• Proficiency in C/C++ and Python; familiarity with common protocols (Ethernet, SPI, I2C, CAN).
• Ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the software development cycle for flight computers (onboard processing units).
• Integrate complex GNC algorithms with flight software.
• Define/maintain CDTB for ground and on-orbit tests.
• Collaborate with ground C2 software team.
• Design and implement satellite subsystem model simulators in HITL/SITL environments.
• Develop reusable device drivers and communication protocol libraries.

Skills

C/C++

Python

RTOS experience

Embedded debugging

Networking basics

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/EE/CE

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

RTLinux

Azure RTOS

Embedded Linux

Git / CI/CD

Job description

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.

OUR MISSION

True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.

OUR VALUES

• Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
• What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
• It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.

BENEFITS & PERKS*

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, with HSA/HRA options
• Generous time off: Flexible Time Off (FTO) for exempt employees, accrued PTO of up to 25 days for non-exempt employees, plus 12 paid holidays; Parental Leave; Sick Leave
• Fuel for your day: Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks for in-office employees
• And more: 401(k) retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, and Dog Fridays
• Equity participation: Equity is included as part of our total compensation package, giving you an opportunity to share in the company’s success.
• Do not apply to fixed term and temporary roles

YOUR MISSION

As a Staff Flight Software Engineer at True Anomaly, you will gain experience at every phase of the spacecraft program including design, analysis, manufacturing, test, and flight. The company culture is one of innovation and speed, so if you are looking for a place that allows you to reach your full potential, this is the job to consider.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the software development cycle including design, development, integration, and test for flight computers used in space missions (on-board computers, processing units and others)
• Integrate complex GNC algorithms with flight software
• Assist with the Command Telemetry Database (CDTB) definition and maintenance for ground and on-orbit test and mission
• Collaborate with the ground C2 software team
• Assist with the effort for command scripting and sequencing of the Spacecraft
• Assist with design and implement satellite subsystem model simulators on HITL/SITL environment
• Develop reusable device drivers/interfaces and communications protocol libraries for flight hardware

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related field and 6+ years of experience with low-level firmware architecture, design, and development
• Low-level device driver development and safety critical systems experience
• Experience with embedded RTOS such as RTLinux or Azure RTOS
• Familiarity with common protocols such as Ethernet, SPI, I2C, CAN, RS422, RS485, etc.
• Proficiency in C/C++ and Python.
• Ability to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance

Preferred Skills And Experience

• Master’s degree in in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related field
• 12+ years experience developing and/or producing FSW for space applications
• Ability to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance
• Demonstrated experience and discipline with version control, continuous integration, and continuous delivery concepts
• Familiarity with embedded Linux
• Familiarity with networking protocols: UDP, TCP/IP
• Comfortable with typical embedded systems tools, compilers, debuggers and IDEs
• Broad experience with microcontrollers, application processors, revision control systems
• Strong debugging skills through use of instrumentation such as oscilloscopes and protocol analyzers
• Application experience in areas such as robotics, automation, motor control, and sensor fusion

Compensation

• Base Salary: $175,000 - $270,000
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

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, location, and experience.

Additional Requirements

• Work Location—This is an onsite role, we are seeking candidates based near Denver, CO or Long Beach, CA.
• Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us know.