Embedded Software Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology to facilitate realistic testing at speeds that surpass Mach

5. Our innovative Talon testbeds offer a cost-efficient means to access hypersonic environments, providing essential flight data that aids in validating system performance and accelerating technology deployment. We are in search of an Embedded Software Engineer at the Level II, Senior, or Staff level to play a key role in the development and testing of flight software for an autonomous air-launched hypersonic vehicle. This position requires collaboration throughout various stages of the software development lifecycle, encompassing system development, ground tests, and flight tests.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and validate innovative flight software tailored for advanced rocket-powered air-launch vehicles.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to pinpoint challenges and formulate software requirements and solutions.
• Contribute to the design of flight software architecture, from conceptualization to implementation.
• Create software components designed for interfacing with and managing vehicle sensors and effectors.
• Establish and execute automated testing protocols for software verification and validation.
• Provide support for hardware testing in laboratory settings through custom software solutions.
• Generate interface documentation to facilitate hardware integration.
• Assist in the integration of air-launch vehicle systems with carrier aircraft.
• Perform design and analysis activities to support component development initiatives.
• Offer technical leadership for projects within the larger program framework.
• Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and a strong commitment to meeting obligations.
• Travel as required to meet departmental needs.

Requirements

• Demonstrated capability to meet the essential responsibilities of the role.
• Experience in developing real-time embedded software.
• Familiarity with serial communication, software testing methodologies, and computer networking principles.
• Understanding of communication standards and protocols, including RS422 and UDP/TCP.
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities.
• Self-motivated with the capacity to prioritize tasks and coordinate effectively with the Vehicle Management Systems lead.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience in the development, testing, and integration of flight computer or vehicle management software.
• Knowledge of Agile Software Development practices.
• Familiarity with design standards for safety-critical systems.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop simulation and testing methodologies.
• Background in both digital and analog circuit design.
• TS/SCI security clearance is a plus.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools such as Jira and Bitbucket.
• Experience with Matlab/Simulink and LabVIEW is advantageous.

Education & experience

• Level II ($101,000-$146,500): A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and 2-5 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Senior Level ($120,500-$158,000): A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and 5-10 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Staff Level ($157,000-$206,000): A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and 10-20 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Practical notes

• This position is primarily based in Mojave, CA, with the possibility of hybrid work arrangements.
• Anticipated travel is minimal, expected to be less than 5% to support departmental requirements.
• Benefits include a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision, and prescription drugs), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement.

Stratolaunch is committed to creating a diverse work environment and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We uphold a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment in any form. For certain roles, U.S. Citizenship may be necessary due to security clearance requirements.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.