Spacecraft Software Engineer (Early)

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

We are seeking a seasoned spacecraft software engineer to work on a closely integrated team. This person is passionate about coding and integrating hardware and software. You will have an opportunity to approach this from a fresh perspective targeting an end result indexed on reliability and efficiency. This will require innovation and creativity to ultimately disrupt and make an impact on the industry.

• Design, develop, and maintain software applications for satellite systems, including mission planning, telemetry and telecommand, satellite control, and data processing.
• Collaborate with system engineers to understand requirements and translate them into software solutions that meet functional and performance goals.
• Write efficient, reusable, and scalable code using industry best practices and coding standards, ensuring high-quality software deliverables.
• Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of software components, identifying and resolving any defects or issues.
• Work closely with hardware engineers to integrate software with satellite subsystems, ensuring seamless communication and synchronization.
• Develop and maintain software documentation, including requirements, design specifications, user manuals, and test plans.
• Conduct performance analysis and optimization of software systems to ensure efficient resource utilization and system stability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including system engineers, network engineers, and operations personnel, to troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends, and contribute to the continuous improvement of software development processes and methodologies.
• Participate in customer and internal design reviews

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
• 1-3 years of total flight software experience
• Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE or equivalent.
• Experience with C/C , Python, Linux, embedded system software, test framework development and HITL simulators.
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills, able to work effectively within an organization and convey decisions, direction, and conclusions in a manner meaningful to multiple audiences. 
• Experience in spacecraft design, launch, and operation, including experience at all phases of the development lifecycle 
• Experience with software development frameworks, version control systems (e.g., Git), and software development tools (e.g., IDEs, debuggers).
• Solid understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile, and experience working in an Agile development environment.
• Familiarity with satellite systems and protocols, such as CCSDS, SpaceWire, and ECSS, and experience with satellite ground station software is a plus.
• Knowledge of database systems and SQL, and experience with data management and processing in distributed systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex software issues and propose effective solutions.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.

Salary Range: $115,000 - $145,000 a year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

Benefits

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:

• Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.  

• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision plans. The primary and dependents’ premium is 99% covered. 

• Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, to reset and recharge.

• Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.   

• Paid parental leave. 

• Daily lunch and unlimited snacks!

• Community events like monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, a run club and more!

• Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self. 

• A world class office located in Culver City, filled with amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family. 

• An opportunity to make a real impact in the aerospace industry.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

Salary : $115,000 - $145,000