Embedded Software Engineer

Job Title:

Embedded Software Engineer Job Description This role focuses on developing and deploying embedded payload software and operating systems for space sensor payloads running on size, weight, and power constrained computing hardware. You will participate in the full software development lifecycle, from requirements generation through implementation, testing, deployment, and ongoing support. The position requires strong expertise in Linux, real-time operating systems, and device interfaces to build fault-tolerant systems that operate reliably in the harsh environment of space. You will join a highly skilled, collaborative team that is pushing the boundaries of space technology and contributing directly to advanced missions in space domain awareness, optical systems, and on-orbit data processing. Responsibilities Support the design, development, and deployment of payload software for space sensor systems and optical payloads. Develop and maintain external interfaces and operating system deployments for size, weight, and power constrained computing hardware. Participate in all phases of the software development lifecycle, including requirements generation, architecture and design, implementation, integration, testing, deployment, and support. Implement and optimize software in C and C++ for complex, multi-threaded applications running on Linux and real-time operating systems. Create and maintain Python scripts to support system deployment, testing, automation, and interface validation. Design and implement device interfaces and hardware drivers, ensuring robust communication with sensors, FPGAs, and other embedded components. Apply fault-tolerant design principles to ensure reliable operation of software in space environments with limited bandwidth and constrained downlink capability. Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers to integrate flight software with payloads, optical systems, and other spacecraft subsystems. Contribute to the development and refinement of interfaces, timing, and communication protocols to meet mission performance and reliability requirements. Participate in code reviews, documentation, and continuous improvement of software development processes. Support simulation, test, and validation activities, including the use of tools such as Python or Matlab for modeling, analysis, and algorithm verification. Provide technical support during on-orbit operations, troubleshooting issues and contributing to software updates and enhancements as needed. Essential Skills At least 5 years of professional, full-time software engineering experience. At least 5 years of professional experience using C and C++ in production-quality codebases. At least 2 years of Python scripting experience. At least 5 years of professional Linux experience. At least 5 years of experience developing complex, multi-threaded applications. Proficiency in C and C++ for embedded and systems-level software development. Proficiency in Python for scripting, automation, testing, and tooling. Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS). Experience with system deployment, including building, packaging, and deploying software to embedded or constrained hardware. Experience developing and testing software interfaces, including hardware and software integration. Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related discipline, or equivalent experience. Strong understanding of Linux fundamentals, including process management, threading, memory, and I/O. Ability to design and implement fault-tolerant software for mission-critical systems. Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and documentation. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience with operating system deployment and hardware drivers and interfaces. Exposure to hybrid C and Python-based test frameworks and tooling. Experience with interfaces, timing, and communication protocols relevant to embedded and space systems. Exposure to or experience with FPGA interfaces and integration. Experience with image processing algorithms, particularly in the context of sensor or optical payloads. Experience with simulation infrastructure using Matlab or Python. Active TS/SCI security clearance, particularly for candidates located in Tucson, AZ or Chantilly, VA. Experience working on space systems, spacecraft payloads, or space domain awareness applications. Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a highly technical, collaborative engineering environment. Work Environment This is a fully remote position, offering flexibility in where you work while contributing to advanced space missions. You may need to travel up to approximately two weeks per quarter for team collaboration, integration activities, or customer engagements, so comfort with periodic travel is important. You will work with a team of about 25 full-time engineers who are experts in their fields and committed to learning from one another and working together to achieve ambitious mission goals. The broader organization designs and builds spacecraft, precision payloads, and critical subsystems such as flight software, optical systems, radios, and separation systems that support a wide range of missions, from interplanetary exploration to national security initiatives. The culture emphasizes technical excellence, collaboration, and a shared passion for space, with many projects culminating in hardware and software that launch into space and perform on-orbit processing to deliver high-value results to customers. Use the following link to book time with a Recruiter to discuss this role further: https://talentassistant.actalentservices.com/assistant/bookings/CxcdJ-NZ  Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Tucson, AZ. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $67.31 - $85.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully remote position.

Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.