Senior Flight Software Engineer I - Secret Clearance
About The Position
Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Flight Software Engineer I to support flight software development for Space Systems programs. Based at the company’s headquarters in Long Beach, California, this role participates in the full software lifecycle, from requirements definition through design, coding, testing, and flight operations. The software is tested and operated on orbit, enabled by Rocket Lab’s rockets and launch sites. The engineer develops software for embedded and spacecraft systems, collaborates with hardware-in-the-loop test engineers and systems teams, and contributes to reviews and validation. The role may involve prolonged sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, with occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, or an equivalent technical degree.
- Active Secret clearance, with ability to obtain TS/SCI.
- At least 5 years of applicable embedded software development experience.
- Proficiency in C and C++.
- Experience with RTOS or embedded Linux.
- U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
Nice To Haves
- Active TS/SCI security clearance.
- Advanced degree.
- Experience with Rust.
- Experience developing embedded software and drivers using CAN/CAN-FD and/or UDP/TCP.
- 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 for a continuous integration framework.
- Work 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, including 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, including HMO, PPO, and a zero-cost HDHP option with a company HSA 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 the company merchandise store.
- Other employee discounts.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
