Embedded Flight Software Engineer Senior
York Space Systems is seeking a Senior Embedded Flight Software Engineer to design, develop, test, and deliver mission-critical software for spacecraft systems. This role focuses on real-time and embedded Linux-based flight software, enabling reliable command, telemetry, networking, and autonomy across on-orbit vehicles.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with strong systems thinking who can operate across the full lifecycle—from architecture and development through integration, test, and on-orbit support.
Not all skills below are required, we encourage you to apply if you have an interest in learning!
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop embedded flight software in C/C++ for spacecraft systems
Design, develop, and maintain reliable embedded flight software for resource-constrained, safety-critical systems.
Develop and debug multithreaded software, including thread synchronization, interprocess communication, race-condition prevention, and deadlock avoidance.
Integrate software with hardware components (OBCs, radios, payloads) in HITL and flatsat environments
Develop and execute test strategies (unit, integration, system, and mission-level testing)
Support on-orbit operations, debugging, and anomaly resolution
Translate Interface Control Documents (ICDs), system requirements, and hardware specifications into robust software interfaces and implementations.
Collaborate across platform, applications, mission ops, and hardware teams
Experience with HITL, flatsat, or system-level test environments
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
5+ years of experience in embedded software development
Strong proficiency in C/C++
Experience with embedded Linux systems (drivers, networking, system-level debugging)
Experience with deterministic build systems such as Yocto or VxWorks
Familiarity with networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, routing concepts)
Experience debugging hardware/software integration issues
Ability to work in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment
Must be clearance eligible and ability to maintain an active Secret Clearance or higher
Love space!
Preferred for the Role
Master’s Degree in computer science or engineering related field
8+ years of experience working with software, network infrastructure, and data transport protocols in space.
Expierence with Real-Time Operating Systems
Experience with spacecraft, aerospace, or safety-critical systems
Knowledge of real-time systems and deterministic software design
Familiarity with CCSDS, DTN, or space communication protocols
Understanding of cybersecurity principles (secure boot, signing, key management)
Experience supporting on-orbit operations or live systems
Active Secret Clearance
