CareerPlan

Senior Software Engineer, Space Special Programs

Chantilly, VA (NOVA-11)Full-time$191k–$254k2026-11-09 → 2026-11-10
No visa sponsorshipCitizens onlySecurity clearance required

Core

Architect and implement full lifecycle flight, ground, and payload software systems for small spacecraft, integrating embedded C, FPGA, computer vision, and control algorithms in computationally restricted environments.

Role type

Senior IC Software Engineer (Space Systems) with Team Lead responsibilities

Builds

Flight software, ground test software, ground station software, and spacecraft system integrations

Domain

Defense / Aerospace / Space Systems

Required skills

Embedded C programming, FPGA interfacing, computer vision, control algorithms, system architecture, RF communication, data protocols, GUI development, database interaction, mission design, team leadership

Preferred skills

M.S. in aerospace/CS, cradle-to-grave lifecycle ownership, classified environment experience, LEO/GEO CubeSat design

Technologies

C, FPGA, embedded systems, RF, computer vision, machine learning

Responsibilities

Architect software systems for embedded and host levels; lead team in developing high-reliability space-flight software; conduct design reviews and create system documentation; mentor engineers; drive integration and test activities; translate mission needs into reusable software products

Seniority

Senior, hands-on IC with team lead duties