Lead Embedded Systems Software Engineer

About the Role

E-Space is constructing a next-generation low Earth orbit infrastructure designed to deliver connectivity as a utility. The Lead Embedded Software Engineer is responsible for converting abstract mission objectives into robust, space-grade firmware. This position requires daily immersion in code while simultaneously providing strategic technical leadership. You will architect systems, mentor engineers, and ensure software reliability from development through continuous in-orbit monitoring. The role blends deep implementation with high-level design decisions that impact global deployments. Your primary mission is to own the entire firmware lifecycle. You will translate product requirements into system architecture, producing production-ready code that meets stringent space industry standards. Expect to operate debuggers and design tools with equal proficiency. You will guide technical direction, ensuring satellite communications remain secure, performant, and resilient against the unique challenges of the orbital environment.

Key Responsibilities

You will define the architecture for low-level software modules, working closely with product managers and mission specialists to establish integration criteria. The role involves designing communication protocols and data stacks that must function reliably under strict latency, reliability, and orbital mechanics constraints inherent to LEO satellite operations. Implementation focuses on creating drivers and communication protocols that guarantee firmware stability in harsh conditions. You will lead code reviews and debugging initiatives, utilizing whiteboards and live debugging sessions to solve complex problems. Coordination of build pipelines is essential to integrate new hardware modules seamlessly, preventing any service interruption. Verification of functionality is a critical duty. You will execute rigorous tests to confirm that radio behavior aligns precisely with orbital test plans and mission objectives. Collaboration with ground station teams will define data formats, downlink procedures, and network protocols for global operations. You will also partner with manufacturing and deployment groups to align firmware development timelines with production schedules.

Requirements

The ideal candidate brings three to five years of experience building embedded systems for severe operational environments. Hands-on expertise with the C programming language and version control systems is mandatory for managing complex firmware projects. A thorough understanding of low-power radio protocols and drivers for connectivity silicon used in space is required. You must possess the ability to rapidly read technical datasheets and translate hardware limitations into concrete software constraints. Debugging intricate issues using analysis instruments and system logs must be accompanied by meticulous documentation for peer review. Clear communication skills are vital for aligning engineers, scientists, and operators toward unified mission goals.

Nice to Have

Direct experience with satellite payloads or components meeting space qualification standards is considered a valuable asset.

Compensation & Location

This is a full-time position based in Saratoga, California. The compensation package ranges from $170,000 to $230,000 USD, reflecting the critical nature of the role and the specialized skill set required.

Practical Information

Please confirm specific details regarding the application process on the official career page. Ensure all provided information remains accurate and current.

What you'll do

• Architect low-level software modules in partnership with product managers and mission specialists to define integration criteria.
• Design communication protocols and data stacks that operate reliably under strict latency, reliability, and orbital mechanics constraints.
• Implement drivers and communication protocols that guarantee firmware stability in harsh orbital conditions.
• Lead code reviews and debugging initiatives using whiteboards and live debugging sessions to solve complex problems.
• Coordinate build pipelines to integrate new hardware modules seamlessly and prevent any service interruption.
• Execute rigorous tests to confirm that radio behavior aligns precisely with orbital test plans and mission objectives.
• Collaborate with ground station teams to define data formats, downlink procedures, and network protocols for global operations.
• Partner with manufacturing and deployment groups to align firmware development timelines with production schedules.
• Mentor engineers and provide strategic technical leadership to ensure software reliability from development through continuous in-orbit monitoring.
• Translate product requirements into system architecture, producing production-ready code that meets stringent space industry standards.
• Operate debuggers and design tools with equal proficiency to diagnose issues and optimize performance.
• Guide technical direction to ensure satellite communications remain secure, performant, and resilient against the unique challenges of the orbital environment.

Requirements

• Bring three to five years of experience building embedded systems for severe operational environments.
• Demonstrate hands-on expertise with the C programming language and version control systems for managing complex firmware projects.
• Possess a thorough understanding of low-power radio protocols and drivers for connectivity silicon used in space.
• Show the ability to rapidly read technical datasheets and translate hardware limitations into concrete software constraints.
• Execute debugging of intricate issues using analysis instruments and system logs while maintaining meticulous documentation for peer review.
• Communicate clearly to align engineers, scientists, and operators toward unified mission goals.

Nice to Have

• Direct experience with satellite payloads or components meeting space qualification standards is considered a valuable asset.

Practical Information

This is a full-time position based in Saratoga, California. The compensation package ranges from $170,000 to $230,000 USD, reflecting the critical nature of the role and the specialized skill set required. Please confirm specific details regarding the application process on the official career page. Ensure all provided information remains accurate and current.