Senior Flight Software Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Flight Software Engineer to join a high-performing engineering team working on cutting-edge space missions focused on the future sustainability of the space environment.

This role sits within a specialist Flight Software team responsible for developing embedded real-time software for advanced spacecraft systems, including next-generation missions designed to support satellite servicing and orbital debris removal.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced embedded software engineer looking to work on innovative, mission-critical space programmes and play a key role in shaping the future of in-orbit operations.

You will be responsible for the development of onboard flight software for satellite systems, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across systems, GNC, and computer vision.

The position covers the full software lifecycle, from requirements definition through to integration, verification, and testing.

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and verify onboard flight software for spacecraft systems

Collaborate with subsystem and system-level teams to define software requirements and solutions

Contribute to and support design reviews, ensuring software compliance and performance

Act as a subject matter expert in flight software development

Support integration of Computer Vision and Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) software into the flight environment

Contribute to knowledge sharing and provide technical input across engineering teams

Essential Requirements

Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a relevant technical discipline

Experience developing flight software for space applications

Strong knowledge of ECSS standards for flight software

Proven experience in real-time embedded software development (C/C++)

Solid understanding of software development methodologies and embedded systems engineering

Experience designing and implementing real-time systems

Self-motivated, proactive, and able to take ownership while working collaboratively within a team

Desirable Skills

Experience within the space sector or other safety-critical industries

Development experience with VxWorks or RTEMS

Familiarity with the full mission lifecycle (concept through to operations)

Knowledge of UML and software modelling techniques

Experience with spacecraft communication protocols (e.g. CCSDS, CAN, SpaceWire)

Familiarity with cFS (Core Flight System)

Experience with SPARC V8 or PowerPC architectures

Linux development and system administration experience

Scripting experience (e.g. shell, Python)

What’s on Offer

Opportunity to work on cutting-edge space missions and technologies

Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options

Optional compressed working schedule (e.g. 9/75 pattern)

25 days annual leave (increasing with service) + bank holidays

Private healthcare and life insurance

Long-term sick pay support

Relocation support (where applicable)

Visa sponsorship available (subject to eligibility)

Modern office and engineering facilities

Collaborative, supportive, and innovative working environment

Regular team and social events

TT