Senior Real-Time/Controls Software EngineerSpace Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.We are seeking a Senior Real-Time / Controls Software Engineer to lead development of deterministic real-time control software supporting high-speed electromechanical aerospace systems. This role will own motor-control implementation, release timing logic, safety interlocks, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) integration for critical system functions. The ideal candidate understands both controls theory and low-level real-time software implementation and can translate GNC, MATLAB/Simulink, and Python-based models into reliable embedded flight-like control software operating in a fast-paced hardware development environment.Key Responsibilities:Develop deterministic real-time control software for electromechanical aerospace systemsOwn motor-control implementation, release timing logic, and safety interlock architectureTranslate MATLAB/Simulink and Python-based control models into production-quality real-time softwareSupport development and integration of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) related algorithmsDesign and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and integration activitiesWork closely with GNC, electrical, mechanical, and systems engineering teams during development and testSupport integration, debugging, and validation of control systems on prototype hardwareDevelop software interfaces for sensors, actuators, motor controllers, and embedded hardware systemsSupport system-level testing, troubleshooting, and rapid iteration during development campaignsParticipate in technical reviews, architecture discussions, and safety-critical design decisionsWhat It Takes:Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field OR Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field5+ years of experience in embedded software, controls software, or real-time systems developmentStrong understanding of real-time software architecture and deterministic system behaviorExperience with motor controls, actuator systems, or embedded control loopsExperience working with MATLAB/Simulink and translating models into deployable softwareStrong programming experience in C/C++ and PythonExperience supporting integration and testing of hardware/software systemsExperience working with space systemsWhat We'd Love:PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.
Compensation will be commensurate with experience, education, and demonstrated technical depth.Aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systems backgroundExperience with HIL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) simulation and testingFamiliarity with GNC algorithms and controls development workflowsExperience supporting high-speed dynamic systems or safety-critical systemsFamiliarity with embedded Linux, RTOS, FPGA interfaces, or low-level hardware communication protocolsStartup or rapid-prototyping experience preferredReal-time embedded systemsControl loop implementationMotor controllers and actuator interfacesSensor integration and signal processingSimulation and modeling workflowsSystem debugging and integration testingCross-functional engineering collaborationOur vision is unique, and so is the team we're building. If you're driven to succeed in this role, even if your background doesn't fully align with every qualification, we want your application.The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year).What We Offer:Equity-Based CompensationHighly Competitive PTO and Holiday CalendarComprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision CoverageUnique Performance-Based Bonus StructureHealth and Wellness StipendCommuter BenefitsTo conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR hereSpace Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.Pay Range$170,000 - $240,000 USD