Bachelor's or advanced degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
5+ years of embedded software engineering experience, particularly in low-level driver development and hardware integration.
Strong proficiency in C, C++, embedded Linux, and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
Familiarity with version control systems like Git and CI/CD workflows.
Ability to collaborate effectively in dynamic environments with a positive attitude.
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
Develop low-level C/C++ drivers and Board Support Packages (BSPs) for microcontrollers and FPGAs.
Design and implement bootloaders and fail-safe recovery modes.
Architect memory management strategies for data integrity across reboots.
Configure communication protocols and bus interfaces between compute units and peripherals.
Implement telemetry collection and task scheduling within RTOS environments.
Execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and debugging on flatsats.
Manage the codebase using version control and contribute to CI/CD workflows.
Benefits
Direct hire opportunity with a reputable client in the aerospace sector.
Work in a dynamic and innovative environment in Los Angeles, CA.
Opportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams on cutting-edge technology.
Potential for professional growth and technical guidance roles.
Engagement in comprehensive test campaigns under flight-like conditions.
Full Job Description
Job Description
Position Title: Embedded Flight Software Engineer
Position Description: Protingent has an exciting direct hire opportunity for a Flight Software Engineer with our client in Los Angeles, CA.
Job Responsibilities:
Develop low-level C/C++ drivers, Board Support Packages (BSPs), and hardware interfaces for microcontrollers, FPGAs, and standard communication buses.
Design and implement stage-1 and stage-2 bootloaders, robust boot behaviors, partition swapping logic, and fail-safe recovery modes.
Architect memory management strategies across volatile and non-volatile memory (NOR/NAND Flash, SRAM, EEPROM) to preserve data integrity across reboots.
Configure low-level communication protocols and bus interfaces (e.g., SPI, I2C, CAN, UART, SpaceWire, or PCIe) between compute units, peripherals, and payloads.
Implement telemetry collection, time synchronization, and task scheduling within RTOS or embedded OS environments.
Execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and debugging on flatsats using logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and FPGA emulator tools.
Manage the codebase using modern version control systems and contribute to CI/CD workflows for automated testing and continuous integration.
Execute comprehensive test campaigns on testbeds and flight units to verify software performance under flight-like conditions.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate subsystems with the spacecraft main compute element.
Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Document design processes, test results, and system performance.
Provide technical guidance on FSW architectures to fellow engineers, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
Job Qualifications:
Bachelor's or advanced degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, or similar field.
5+ years of embedded software engineering experience, with exposure to low-level driver development, hardware integration, or bootloaders.
Strong proficiency in C, C++, embedded Linux, and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).
Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and automated testing/CI workflows.
Strong ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic environment while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Desired Job Qualifications:
Experience writing custom drivers for FPGA logic blocks or hardware interfaces (such as I2C, CAN, SPI, UART, or SpaceWire).
Experience with hardware-level communication protocols and hardware/software integration.
Experience working in clean room environments and adhering to ESD protocols.
Demonstrated experience with custom bootloader design, memory controller drivers, Flash file systems, and image verification/recovery techniques.
Job Details:
Job Type: Direct Hire
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Salary Range: $130K-170K
ITAR obligations are associated with this role, U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a) (1), (3) is required.
May be required to obtain and maintain a United States Department of Defense Top Secret security clearance
