Principal Flight Software Engineer

Rocket Lab•Long Beach, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Flight Software Engineer will play a key role in supporting the development of flight software for Rocket Lab's Space Systems programs. This role involves all aspects of software design and development, from requirements definition through coding and testing. The software developed will be used on orbit within weeks and months due to Rocket Lab's integrated launch capabilities. This position offers the opportunity to see software make a significant impact on space exploration and innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, or other technical engineering discipline)
12+ years of demonstrated applicable experience in embedded software development
Proficiency in Rust, C++, and C languages
Experience with Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) or with Embedded Linux
Experience leading junior software developers, collaborating with other engineering disciplines, and interacting with customers
Active Security clearance OR ability to obtain and maintain one
U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

Nice To Haves

Master’s or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
Experience developing software and drivers with CAN/CAN-FD and/or UDP/TCP within an embedded system
Experience developing software for autonomous vehicles operating in harsh environments

Responsibilities

Develop application software to run within a Real Time Operating System (RTOS) and/or embedded Linux
Develop hardware drivers to interface to Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), Star Trackers, Reaction Wheels and other spacecraft sensors and actuators
Develop and maintain comprehensive unit tests to run 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 in developing, documenting and validating requirements
Participate in review of source code changes and ensure all changes meet company coding standards
Participate in design reviews such as a PDR and CDR
Assist with on-orbit (and interplanetary!) flight operations

Benefits

Company stock as part of total compensation package
Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock)
Top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution)
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
Subsidized EV charging
Onsite fitness centers (where available)
Discounted gym memberships
Complimentary snacks and beverages
50% employee discount on merchandise
Variety of other employee discounts