Software Engineer - Embedded Systems [Huracan]

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

We are seeking a Software Engineer to design and implement the software architecture for the control of cryogenic pump inverters in a high-performance rocket engine system. This role involves translating high-level control algorithms into embedded implementations, designing real-time systems, and integrating hardware interfaces. The engineer will also contribute to broader software development tasks, ensuring robust, efficient, and maintainable code for safety-critical applications.

The ideal candidate is proficient in C/C++ programming, with a strong background in embedded systems and experience in low-level hardware/software integration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement the embedded software architecture for the pump inverter control system, focusing on real-time performance, task scheduling, and hardware/software integration.

• Translate high-level control algorithms (e.g., speed and torque controllers) into embedded code and integrate them into the system.

• Develop and optimize device drivers for hardware interfaces (e.g., ADCs, PWMs, encoders, and communication protocols like CAN, SPI, or UART).

• Implement diagnostic and fault-handling mechanisms to ensure the reliability and safety of the system in safety-critical scenarios.

• Conduct unit and integration testing of the software, ensuring compliance with system requirements and performance under real-time constraints.

• Collaborate with hardware, controls, and system engineers to define and validate software/hardware interfaces.

• Maintain clear and detailed documentation, including software architecture, design decisions, and testing protocols.

• Support system-level testing and debugging in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environments and during engine integration.

What we'd love to see from you:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• 3+ years of experience in embedded software development, particularly in real-time and safety-critical environments.

• Proficiency in C/C++ programming with a focus on performance and maintainability.

• Experience in low-level hardware/software integration, including device driver development and communication protocols (e.g., CAN, SPI, UART).

• Strong understanding of real-time operating systems (RTOS) or bare-metal development.

• Familiarity with control systems and their implementation in embedded environments is a plus.

• Knowledge of safety-critical software development standards (e.g., ECSS, ISO 26262) is highly desirable.

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:  

• We’re Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind 

• We’re Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them  

• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It’s a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?  

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly. 
 
The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.