Flight Software Engineer

About the role

Impulse is hiring a Flight Software Engineer in Redondo Beach to design, develop and integrate the software that powers its space vehicles. The engineer works closely with avionics, GNC, propulsion and other cross-disciplinary teams to deliver high-reliability, high-performance software for in-space transportation.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement, integrate and verify software for Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) algorithms, command and telemetry handling, mission sequencing, autonomy and fault management, and closed-loop control of propulsion and attitude control systems.
• Implement features for the real-time flight software framework to meet deterministic performance requirements in space environments.
• Develop detection and mitigation algorithms for anomalies such as sensor failures, actuator malfunctions or radiation-induced faults.
• Lead and take part in code reviews, ensuring compliance with software safety, reliability and maintainability standards.
• Support mission operations and troubleshoot real-time issues during ground integration, environmental testing and on-orbit operations.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 2+ years writing C++ code for an embedded system or vehicle (robot, car, drone, spacecraft, etc.).
• Demonstrated understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, data structures and computer networking.
• Experience with Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS) or Embedded Linux.
• Experience using version control, test cases and other software best practices.

Preferred skills and experience

• Proven track record delivering flight software for spacecraft, including launch vehicles, OTVs, upper stages or other in-space propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with NASA cFS, ROS2 or custom middleware for space applications.
• 4+ years of experience designing software for deterministic timing and hard real-time constraints.
• Participation in successful integration, testing, launch and mission operations of a space vehicle.

What we offer

• Stated pay range of $130,000 to $280,000 per year.
• Possible long-term incentives in the form of stock options for full-time hires.
• Medical, vision and dental coverage and access to a 401(k) retirement plan.