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Engineering Manager, Flight Software

Santa Barbara, CA

Our client is seeking a Flight Software Engineering Manager to lead the development of embedded flight software for mission-critical space systems. This role blends hands-on technical leadership with people management, offering the opportunity to shape architecture, guide development, and ensure successful system integration and testing.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage and mentor a team of 3–4 software engineers (40% people management, 60% technical leadership).
  • Architect and implement reliable, fault-tolerant flight software.
  • Develop command and control software for spacecraft operations and payloads.
  • Lead and contribute to testing efforts, including unit and system-level automated tests.
  • Maintain clear documentation for software interfaces and operations.
  • Collaborate across teams to ensure seamless integration with spacecraft and ground systems.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years in high-reliability software development.
  • 2+ years managing software engineers (hiring, mentoring, performance reviews).
  • 2+ years of technical leadership (requirements, design, testing).
  • Proficiency in Rust or Modern C++ for embedded systems.
  • Strong understanding of processor architecture and performance optimization.
  • Experience with Agile development, source control, and documentation tools.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Desired Qualifications

  • Advanced degree in a related field.
  • 8+ years of relevant experience.
  • Background in flight software, robotics, or autonomous systems.
  • Experience with fault-critical systems and secure coding practices.
  • Proficiency in Python, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines.
  • Familiarity with embedded ARM development (Linux, RTOS, or bare-metal).
  • Knowledge of hardware interfaces (Ethernet, SPI, I2C, UART, PCIe).
  • Experience managing software product lines.

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