Flight Software Engineer Verified today

K2 Space · Los Angeles, CA · Software · first seen 2026-07-16

The Role

The software team at K2 is building our stack primarily in Rust because we believe modern programming languages should be fun, as well as correct. Rust enables us to be more effective across the entire stack: GNC algorithms, application software on flight computers, embedded software on microcontrollers, and more.

As a Flight Software Engineer, you will be responsible for the development and verification of the software used to fly some of the largest spacecraft ever built. You will write mission-critical code that controls propulsion systems, attitude control systems, and power systems to ensure safe and reliable operation.

In your first 6 months you will develop core pieces of the software architecture including strategies for fault tolerance, real-time control, and telemetry downlink. In your first year you will implement larger software systems and begin verifying your code using software and hardware in the loop simulators. In your first two years you will operate your code on multiple spacecraft, demonstrating robust performance in demanding missions.

Responsibilities

Create software architecture for real-time, fault tolerant control of a 20kW+ spacecraft
Develop software applications for control of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, guidance/attitude control, thermal, power, and communications systems
Design and implement state machines for robust operation of the spacecraft
Author drivers for microcontroller peripherals and external sensors
Create and utilize robust tools to allow for rapid deployment of quality code
Perform data analysis and anomaly investigation to identify and resolve software bugs
Support integration and testing of the spacecraft subsystems
Build and maintain infrastructure to increase reliability when developing and testing software

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, math, or a STEM discipline or 3+ years of professional experience in software engineering
Development experience in C/C++ or Rust

Nice to Have

Experience with spacecraft flight software development
Fluency with Linux systems programming and driver development
Experience with continuous integration and continuous delivery systems
Experience working with hard real-time embedded systems (bare-metal or RTOS)
Experience authoring no_std systems in Rust
Basic knowledge of electronics, computer architecture, and control systems
Experience developing or working with state machines
Experience with software verification and testing methods
Experience with software and network performance analysis and debugging
Experience working in Rust production environments
Experience with fault tolerant software design and implementation
Experience defining and creating test systems for both hardware-in-the-loop and hardware-out-of-the-loop

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range: $123,000 - $160,000 plus equity in the company
Salary based on knowledge and skills, education, and experience level
Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave

Export Compliance

This role provides access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including ITAR. You must either be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.