Lead Flight Software

Lead Flight Software Engineer

At The Exploration Company, we are developing Nyx, a modular and reusable orbital vehicle designed to carry cargo—and eventually humans—into space. Our mission is to enable sustainable and accessible space transportation.

As Lead Flight Software Engineer, you will own the end-to-end delivery of flight software, including simulation environments and testing systems required to fly, verify, and certify the vehicle.

This is a hands-on leadership role, managing multiple teams while staying deeply involved in technical decisions and system architecture.

Your Role

• Own the flight software architecture, ensuring scalability, robustness, and safety
• Drive system-level decisions and critical design reviews
• Establish strong collaboration across avionics, GNC, systems, and safety teams
• Shape verification and validation strategies (SIL, HIL, Monte Carlo, automated testing)
• Align software development with program milestones and integration timelines
• Represent flight software in program reviews and certification discussions (e.g., NASA)
• Ensure effective collaboration with IV&V organizations

Leadership Responsibilities

• Manage 4 teams (~20 engineers)
• Coach team leads and develop senior engineers
• Establish engineering standards and best practices
• Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, and delivery
• Balance fast execution with certification and quality requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and testing of spacecraft flight software
• Ensure high-quality and timely delivery of software
• Collaborate across teams for seamless system integration
• Define and implement software development processes
• Ensure compliance with safety, performance, and reliability standards
• Continuously improve software and adopt new technologies
• Stay updated on latest advancements in spacecraft software
• Contribute hands-on to C/C++ code and testing
• Support team growth and mentorship

What We’re Looking For

• Extensive experience in flight software development for spacecraft or similar systems
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent cross-functional collaboration abilities
• Experience with software development processes and best practices
• Strong understanding of safety-critical systems
• Ability to deliver reliable, certifiable software
• Up-to-date knowledge of space software technologies
• Hands-on experience with C/C++
• Commitment to team development and mentorship

Why Join Us?

• Agile Environment: Fast decision-making with clear goals
• Open & Collaborative Culture: Transparency and teamwork
• Meaningful Mission: Help democratize access to space
• Dynamic Workplace: A rare opportunity to work on cutting-edge space technology

Apply Now

We’d love to hear from you! Submit your CV for immediate consideration.

The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, or background.

Relocation support and visa sponsorship are available for eligible candidates.