Embedded Flight Software Engineer

Astroscale UK is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer to join our Flight Software team in Harwell, UK to help realise our vision for the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations.

 

This position will be part of the team responsible for the technical development of embedded real-time software for our future orbital debris missions including the ELSA-M service to capture and retire multiple satellites.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a background in real-time embedded software looking to take the next step in their career and be part of exciting and innovative projects in space.

This role will focus on flight software development for satellite onboard computers; defining solutions based on requirements, working with other subsystem teams on software needs, performing verification, integration, and test activities.

Responsibilities 

 

• Design, develop and validate onboard Flight Software for Astroscale spacecraft.
• Define ICDs, development and verification plans.
• Coordinate with other teams at sub-system and system level to identify software needs and solutions
• Perform Flight Software verification, validation, and integration.
• Participate in Mission System Test and Simulation campaigns.
• Support knowledge transfer from Astroscale teams globally and provide technical review inputs to projects across the Astroscale organisation.
  
  

Essential Skills

 

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or relevant engineering / science discipline.
• Experience of software development for real-time embedded systems (C/C++).
• Experience and understanding of real-time operating system concepts (e.g. VxWorks, RTEMS)
• Experience of implementing equipment drivers and ICDs.
• Experience of version control using Git.
• Knowledge of software development methodologies & embedded software engineering.
• Experience in developing and implementing test plans.
• Experience testing and debugging software independently, both in simulation and on target.
• Proactive and self-managing.
  
  

Desirable skills

 

• Experience developing software for the space sector.
• Experience of development for VxWorks.
• Experience of all stages of mission design lifecycle from initial concept to design, test, and operations.
• Familiarity with commonly used protocols and standards for communications, such as CCSDS, CAN, Spacewire.
• Familiarity with industry code standards and best practices (e.g. MISRA)
• Knowledge of NASA cFS software framework.
• Familiarity of the ECSS standards
• Experience of PowerPC architecture.
• Linux system administration, shell scripts, make, etc.
• Development on Linux systems.
• Knowledge of Python
  
  

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Opportunity to work with a highly talented, diverse & dynamic international team with cutting edge technology
• Flexible working around core hours in a friendly and supportive environment
• Optional 9/75 working pattern
• Hybrid working available (dependent on individual role requirements)
• 25 days holiday (increasing yearly up to a maximum of 28 days) + 8 days Bank Holiday
• Life insurance and long-term sick pay
• Private healthcare (taxable benefit)
• Relocation allowance
• Visa sponsorship for employees considered
• New state of the art office and cleanroom facility
• Regular social events 
  
  

Location

Astroscale UK (Harwell), with potential for some travel to Astroscale Japan (Tokyo)

About Astroscale

We aim to deliver cutting edge technologies that will become part of routine commercial space operations by 2030.

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space.

Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Note to recruitment agencies: Astroscale operates a preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency approaches. Please do not forward candidate CVs or details in response to this advert, or to any Astroscale employee.