Flight Software Engineer
Job Description
Apolink Communications is at the forefront of revolutionizing satellite communications by building the world's most interoperable satellite relay network in low Earth orbit. This role presents an exciting opportunity for a seasoned Flight Software Engineer to make a significant impact on the future of space communications.
As a Flight Software Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing the critical embedded and flight software stack that powers Apolink's relay spacecraft platforms. This isn't just any software development role – you'll be working on systems that will operate in the harsh environment of space, requiring exceptional attention to detail and reliability.
The position offers a comprehensive blend of technical challenges, from low-level device drivers to autonomous fault recovery systems. You'll be working with cutting-edge technology, including both RF and optical inter-satellite links, while designing and implementing the digital nervous system that makes our satellites reliable and interoperable.
The role requires a strong background in embedded systems and real-time software development, with at least 5 years of experience in space, aerospace, or robotics sectors. Your expertise in C/C++ and RTOS will be essential, as will your ability to work with various embedded communication protocols and hardware interfaces.
What makes this opportunity unique is the chance to be part of a mission launching in 2026, where you'll help lay the foundation for a scalable constellation of satellites. You'll work directly with avionics hardware, vendor SDKs, and payload systems, collaborating with a diverse team of RF, GNC, and systems engineers.
The compensation package is competitive, ranging from $150K to $180K, plus equity and comprehensive benefits including healthcare, 401(k) with matching, and professional development opportunities. Located in Palo Alto, CA, you'll be working at the heart of technology innovation while contributing to the next generation of space communications infrastructure.
Responsibilities For Flight Software Engineer
- Architect and implement real-time flight software for satellite command and control
- Develop embedded software for avionics, SDRs, and optical/RF payload subsystems
- Build hardware abstraction layers, device drivers, and telemetry/telecommand interfaces
- Read and integrate vendor SDKs into the flight stack for bus and payload components
- Implement autonomy features, including fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR)
- Build and maintain software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) frameworks
- Design spacecraft-to-ground communication protocols with authentication and security
- Support hardware integration, functional testing, and on-orbit commissioning
- Collaborate with RF, GNC, and systems engineers for seamless spacecraft ops
Requirements For Flight Software Engineer
- B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in embedded/flight software development (space, aerospace, or robotics)
- Proficiency in C/C++ for real-time and resource-constrained systems
- Experience with RTOS (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, RTEMS, or similar)
- Strong debugging skills with CI/CD, automated testing, and hardware bring-up
- Hands-on experience with embedded communication protocols (CAN, UART, I²C, SPI, RS-422, etc.)
- Familiarity with spacecraft operations, comm protocols, and avionics integration
- Comfortable working with vendor SDKs and adapting them to flight software needs
- Passion for building reliable systems that operate in extreme environments
- Ability to work in-person or willingness to relocate to Palo Alto, CA
- Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible for U.S. Department of State authorizations
Benefits For Flight Software Engineer
- Equity participation
- Comprehensive health care
- 401(k) with company matching
- Flexible vacation
- Catered meal credits
- Professional development opportunities
- Stock options
- Discretionary performance bonuses
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