Flight Software Engineer I

Rocket Lab • Littleton, CO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is seeking a Flight Software Engineer I for its Space Systems team in Littleton, Colorado. The role supports flight software development for Space Systems programs and participates in the full software lifecycle, from requirements definition through coding and testing. Software may be deployed and operated in orbit within weeks or months, with frequent opportunities for on-orbit testing enabled by Rocket Lab’s rockets and launch sites.

The engineer develops application software for real-time operating systems and/or embedded Linux, creates drivers for spacecraft sensors and actuators, and works with software, hardware, and systems teams to verify functionality and validate requirements. The role also contributes to code and design reviews and assists with on-orbit and interplanetary flight operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or an equivalent technical degree.
• Experience in embedded software development.
• Proficiency in C and C++.
• Experience with RTOS or embedded Linux.
• Active Secret security clearance, or ability to obtain and maintain one.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Active TS/SCI security clearance.
• Experience with the Rust language.
• Advanced degree.
• Experience developing software and drivers using CAN/CAN-FD and/or UDP/TCP within an embedded system.
• Experience developing software for autonomous vehicles operating in harsh environments, such as satellites or autonomous vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Develop application software for real-time operating systems (RTOS) and/or embedded Linux.
• Develop hardware drivers for spacecraft sensors and actuators, including IMUs, star trackers, and reaction wheels.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive unit tests within a Continuous Integration framework.
• Collaborate with hardware-in-the-loop test engineers to verify and validate combined software and hardware functionality.
• Collaborate with systems engineers and embedded systems engineers to develop, document, and validate requirements.
• Review source code changes and ensure they meet company coding standards.
• Participate in design reviews, such as PDR and CDR.
• Assist with on-orbit and interplanetary flight operations.

Benefits

• Company stock as part of total compensation.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount on company stock.
• Medical plans.
• Dental and vision coverage.
• Paid vacation and sick time.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
• Paid parental leave.
• Disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Other discounts and perks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level