Senior Software Engineer – Space Compute Platform

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and implement the flight and mission software that powers Cowboy Space’s on‑orbit compute platform. The role spans the full stack, from low‑level embedded code on satellites to ground‑system tools and simulation environments, supporting highly reliable, low‑latency operations in space.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test high‑reliability flight software for satellite subsystems and on‑orbit compute workloads.
• Implement mission‑critical functions such as command & data handling, fault detection, isolation and recovery, and secure communications.
• Write software across embedded C++/Rust/Python stacks and integrate with higher‑level mission logic.
• Build and maintain ground‑system applications, simulation tools, and hardware‑in‑the‑loop test rigs.
• Collaborate with hardware, GNC, and constellation operations teams to define interfaces and ensure system‑level integration.
• Produce detailed design documentation, interface control documents, and comprehensive test plans.
• Participate in code and design reviews and support CI/CD pipelines for safe deployment.

Required profile

• 5+ years of professional software engineering experience (internships and relevant projects count).
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in at least one systems‑level language (C++, Rust, or Python).
• Experience with embedded systems, distributed or autonomous systems, or aerospace‑related software.
• Strong fundamentals in data structures and algorithms.

Required skills

• C++
• Rust
• Python
• Embedded systems development
• Distributed systems concepts
• Robotics or autonomous system software
• Aerospace or hardware‑adjacent software experience
• CI/CD pipeline implementation

What we offer

• Opportunity to own critical components in a fast‑growing space‑technology company.
• Collaboration with experts in hardware, guidance, navigation, and control.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.