Flight Software Engineer

Job Title: Flight Software Engineer
Job Location: Torrance
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Engineering
Job Overview: We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Flight Software Engineer to join our client based in Torrance. The Flight Software Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining the flight software that operates and controls aircraft, spacecraft, or related systems. This role requires a strong background in software development, embedded systems, and a passion for solving complex engineering challenges to ensure the highest levels of reliability, safety, and performance in flight operations.
Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and implement flight software systems for control, navigation, communication, and monitoring of aircraft or spacecraft.
• Write efficient, maintainable, and robust code for real-time embedded systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams (aerospace engineers, hardware engineers, and systems engineers) to ensure flight software integrates seamlessly with the overall vehicle architecture.
• Develop and execute software validation, simulation, and testing protocols, including both hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) testing.
• Perform debugging and troubleshooting of flight software during development and testing phases to ensure system functionality and robustness.
• Optimize flight software for performance, resource utilization, and reliability in real-time flight environments.
• Maintain and upgrade legacy software systems to ensure continued performance and compatibility with new technologies or regulations.
• Ensure flight software is compatible with various hardware platforms, including avionics and embedded systems.
• Document software designs, architectures, and test results, following best practices for software development and version control.
• Monitor the latest advancements in flight software, avionics, and embedded system technologies to introduce innovative solutions and improvements.
• Provide support for flight operations, including troubleshooting and software maintenance during field tests or real-world flight operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• Proven experience (6+ years) in flight software development, embedded systems, or real-time software engineering.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or Rust for embedded systems.
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded system development tools.
• Knowledge of avionics systems, flight control systems, and communication protocols used in flight software.
• Familiarity with software development tools such as version control systems (e.g., Git), build systems, and integrated development environments (IDEs).
• Experience with testing frameworks, simulation tools, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
• Strong understanding of safety-critical systems, with experience working in regulated environments (e.g., DO-178C, ARP 4754, or similar safety standards).
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills, with the ability to work in high-pressure environments.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with flight control systems, autonomous flight, or spacecraft operations.
• Familiarity with aerospace communication protocols such as MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, or Ethernet-based protocols.
• Experience with data processing, telemetry, and flight data management systems.
• Experience with software certification processes and safety-critical software design.
• Knowledge of Linux-based systems and virtualization technologies.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity for career growth and professional development
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holidays