Flight Software Engineer II

Quantum Space•Rockville, MD

About The Position

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 behaviors, 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.

Requirements

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, System-level debugging
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 Haves

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)

Responsibilities

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 behaviors in flight software.
Work with mission operations and ground software teams to design scheduling logic, command sequences, and autonomous behaviors.
Support hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, system integration, and functional verification of spacecraft software.
Document software behaviors, interfaces, and workflows to ensure cross-functional alignment across engineering teams.
Operate effectively in a schedule-driven, rapid development environment