Principal Flight Software Engineer

The Exploration Company
Munich
Workplace: OnsiteFull timeFunction: Software EngineeringSkills: ["C++","Python","Real-time systems","Embedded development","Software testing","CI/CD","HIL testing","Code reviews"]

Lead and mentor a high-performing team to design, implement, and validate spacecraft flight software (Nyx), owning the technical roadmap and execution. Balance hands-on development in modern C++ and Python with leadership, rigorous testing, and cross-functional collaboration across GNC, avionics, propulsion, and mission operations to ensure high-reliability software for space missions.

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FursaFursa
The Exploration Company
The Exploration Company
6 months ago

Principal Flight Software Engineer

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Last checked: 1 hour agoStatus: Live

Job Summary

Lead and mentor a high-performing team to design, implement, and validate spacecraft flight software (Nyx), owning the technical roadmap and execution. Balance hands-on development in modern C++ and Python with leadership, rigorous testing, and cross-functional collaboration across GNC, avionics, propulsion, and mission operations to ensure high-reliability software for space missions.
Location: Munich
Workplace: Onsite
Employment Type: Full time
Job Function: Software Engineering
Seniority: Sr. Manager level

Key Responsibilities

  • •Lead and mentor a high-performing team of flight software engineers in the design, implementation, testing, and integration of spacecraft software.
  • •Own the technical roadmap and execution for flight software, including architecture, modularity, and interfaces across avionics and vehicle subsystems.
  • •Set high standards for code quality, test coverage, simulation fidelity, and system robustness.
  • •Drive development in modern C++ (C++17 or newer) and Python, enabling safe and efficient spacecraft operations in real-time environments.
  • •Oversee the development of test infrastructure, including unit, integration, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, to ensure flight readiness

Key Requirements

  • •Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++17 or newer) and Python
  • •Experience with real-time systems, embedded development, or spacecraft software
  • •Demonstrated ownership of complex technical problems and drive to resolution
  • •Familiarity with software testing methodologies and simulation tools
  • •Excellent cross-disciplinary communication and collaboration skills
Experience:SpaceflightAerospace
Skills:C++PythonReal-time systemsEmbedded developmentSoftware testingCI/CDHIL testingCode reviews
Tech Stack:C++PythonCI/CDHILRTOSCAN BusTCP/IPUART

Company Brief

The Exploration Company
Designs and develops reusable crewed and cargo spacecraft for low Earth orbit missions. The company builds orbital transfer and return vehicles to enable routine transportation, research, and commercial services in space.
Industry: Space Technology
Company Size: Medium (51 to 250 employees)
Growth: Growth Stage Startup
Headquarters: Munich, Germany
Founded: 2018
WebsiteLinkedIn