Principal Flight Software Engineer (Embedded C/C++)

Location: Onsite near Denver, Colorado or Long Beach, California, United States

Base salary: $180,000–$285,000 per year, plus equity and benefits.

Company

hirify.global develops autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors for U.S. and allied space operations.

What you will do

• Own the architecture and technical direction of flight software for spacecraft onboard computers, processing units, and related systems.
• Lead the design and development of robust, safety-critical embedded software focused on maintainability and mission reliability.
• Integrate GNC algorithms with flight software and collaborate with GNC specialists on correctness and performance.
• Define the Command Telemetry Database architecture for ground and on-orbit testing and operations.
• Architect HITL and SITL simulation environments and reusable device-driver and communications-protocol libraries.
• Set engineering standards and represent flight software in design reviews, architecture discussions, and cross-functional planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience with embedded systems, low-level firmware architecture, and safety-critical software, including ownership of flight software architecture on delivered space or safety-critical programs.
• Expert-level C/C++ and Python proficiency, with deep experience in device drivers and real-time embedded systems.
• Hands-on experience with RTLinux or Azure RTOS and protocols including Ethernet, SPI, I2C, CAN, RS422, and RS485.
• Must be able to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance and meet U.S. space-technology export requirements.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual, or eligible to obtain the required U.S. authorizations.

Nice to have

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering or computer science field.
• Direct contributions to on-orbit missions and experience defining engineering standards across a software organization.
• Embedded Linux, UDP, TCP/IP, embedded toolchains, microcontrollers, application processors, and large-scale revision control experience.
• Advanced debugging with oscilloscopes and protocol analyzers, plus experience in robotics, automation, motor control, or sensor fusion.

Culture & Benefits

• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage with HSA/HRA options.
• Flexible time off or accrued PTO of up to 25 days, plus 12 paid holidays, parental leave, and sick leave.
• 401(k) retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, catered lunches and snacks for in-office employees.
• Equity participation as part of total compensation.
• Onsite work environment with responsibilities that may include physical demands such as sitting, bending, lifting, and driving.

Hiring process

• The position remains open until successfully filled.