We are seeking an experienced and technically hands-on **Manager, Software & Simulation Test Design** Manager to lead multidisciplinary software teams developing mission-critical systems for lunar landers, spacecraft, and satellite platforms. This role oversees the development of flight software (FSW), ground software (GSW), mission operations software, and test software environments supporting spacecraft development, integration, verification, and mission operations.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical leadership with deep systems-level understanding of aerospace software architectures, mission operations concepts, real-time embedded systems, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) infrastructure, and closed-loop integration and test (CIL) environments ensuring consistency, scalability, and reliability across global engineering teams. This individual will drive execution across the full software lifecycle while fostering agile engineering practices, scalable engineering processes, and a high-performing technical culture.

This is not a role for someone who needs constant direction or is uncomfortable making informed decisions in a fast-moving environment; it is for a thoughtful, diligent leader who can balance independence with strong team partnership. For the right person, this is a chance to apply both strategic judgment and meticulous execution to work genuinely on the frontier of space development.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to space systems that will have global impact through lunar exploration, satellite communications, and next-generation space infrastructure applying both strategic judgment and meticulous execution to work genuinely on the frontier of space development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary teams across Flight Software, Ground Software, Mission Operations Software, Automated Test & Verification, and Simulation/Integration.
• Drive architecture, development, integration, and deployment of mission-critical software for lunar landers, spacecraft, and satellite platforms.
• Develop real-time HIL and Closed-Loop Integration (CIL) test environments; maintain automated test, simulation, and regression frameworks.
• Oversee software integration across avionics, sensors, flight computers, comms systems, and mission operations infrastructure using MATLAB/Simulink, NI LabVIEW/VeriStand/TestStand, and Speedgoat systems.
• Establish scalable software architectures, CI/CD pipelines, code review standards, and quality metrics across the organization.
• Champion agile methodologies - sprint planning, backlog management, and incremental delivery.
• Partner with Systems, Avionics, GNC, Hardware, I&T, and Mission Ops teams; support mission readiness, anomaly investigations, and post-launch operations.
• Mentor engineers, build high-performing teams, and contribute to resource estimation, risk identification, and schedule planning.
• Embody ispace values: Diversity, Integrity, Respect, Collaboration, and Accountability.

Basic Qualifications

• B.S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of software engineering experience in aerospace, defense, robotics, or high-reliability industries.
• 3+ years of engineering management or technical leadership of multidisciplinary software teams.
• Hands-on experience with C/C++, Python, Linux, MATLAB/Simulink, and NI LabVIEW/VeriStand/TestStand/Speedgoat.
• Familiarity with RTOS environments (VxWorks, RTEMS), spacecraft protocols (CCSDS, cFS, DDS), or SIL testing.
• Strong background in real-time embedded systems, distributed architectures, FSW/GSW, telemetry/command, and spacecraft I&T.
• Experience architecting real-time HIL systems and CIL test environments.
• Proven ability to establish engineering best practices and grow technical talent.
• Familiarity with ITAR/EAR requirements for sharing technical data with international parties.

What Makes You Stand Out!

• Experience with lunar, deep-space, or satellite constellation programs.
• Knowledge of NASA software standards and aerospace development lifecycles.
• Background in safety-critical industries (aerospace, automotive, defense).
• Experience supporting environmental testing, launch campaigns, or on-console mission operations.
• Willingness to travel domestically or internationally (

$126,000 - $189,000 a year

We welcome candidates with diverse experience levels and evaluate the best fit on an individual basis. Your final job level and salary will be determined based on your skills, experience, and the impact you can bring to the role.
• Health Coverage: Competitive medical, vision, and dental plans, with 100% company-paid options available for employees.
• Hybrid Work: Flexibility to work remotely and in-office, depending on your role and the stage of our program.
• Commuter Perks: Company-paid RTD EcoPass for buses and light rail.
• Lunch Perks: Monthly stipend to enjoy meals from our café.
• Paid Time Off: 18 vacation days, 6 sick days, and 17 paid holidays.
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with company matching.
• Travel: Opportunities for domestic and international travel.
• Stock Options: Participation in our stock option program.
• Learning & Development: Ample opportunities to grow, including lunch-and-learns, skills training, and stipends for professional development.
• Team Culture: A fun and casual environment with regular team gatherings, including monthly engagement events to connect and unwind.

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