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Embedded Flight Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$143.70K - $189.10K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at MORSE, you will be developing software to support Unmanned ... You will play a critical role in flight testing by defining test objectives, configuring software ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$90K - $210K/yr

As an Embedded Software Engineer at MORSE, you will be developing software to support Unmanned ... You will play a critical role in flight testing by defining test objectives, configuring software ...

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$75K - $156K/yr

The Software Engineer 2 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets ... Skills/Abilities • Excellent development and troubleshooting skills on embedded targets. • ...

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site +1

$75K - $156K/yr

The Software Engineer 2 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets ... Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms. Analyzes designs to demonstrate ...

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site +1

$75K - $156K/yr

The Software Engineer 2 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets ... Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms. * Analyzes designs to demonstrate ...

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site +1

$75K - $156K/yr

The Software Engineer 2 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets ... Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms. * Analyzes designs to demonstrate ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Lexington, MA

$147.70K - $194.40K/yr

ABOUT THE JOB The Imaging team is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to help design a new ... flight testing, and mature the prototypes into products. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Design firmware for ...

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Embedded Flight Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$76K

$166.6K

$189K

How much do embedded flight software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded flight software engineer in Boston, MA is $166,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $142,900.00 and $187,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Flight Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Flight Software Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science or engineering, proficiency in C/C++ programming, and experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems. Familiarity with aerospace standards, software development tools (such as Git, Jenkins), and certifications like DO-178C for software safety are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure reliable, safe, and efficient software for mission-critical aerospace applications.

What are some common challenges Embedded Flight Software Engineers face when working on spacecraft projects?

Embedded Flight Software Engineers often work under strict reliability and safety requirements, which means testing and validation are critical and highly rigorous. They frequently collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure software and hardware integration is seamless, and must manage constraints such as limited processing power and memory. Additionally, they need to adapt to changing project requirements and tight deadlines, all while staying up-to-date with evolving aerospace standards and technologies. These challenges make strong problem-solving skills and effective communication essential in this role.

What are Embedded Flight Software Engineers?

Embedded Flight Software Engineers design, develop, test, and maintain software that runs on embedded computer systems within aircraft, spacecraft, or satellites. They work closely with hardware engineers to ensure that the software interfaces correctly with sensors, actuators, and control systems used for flight operations. Their responsibilities often include programming in languages like C or C++, debugging real-time systems, and ensuring compliance with safety and reliability standards. This role is critical in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of aerospace vehicles.

What is the difference between Embedded Flight Software Engineer vs Embedded Systems Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Flight Software EngineerEmbedded Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; experience with aerospace standardsBachelor's or higher in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft, satellites, aerospace industry, safety-critical systemsConsumer electronics, automotive, industrial devices, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and defense sectorsBroad industry application including automotive, medical, consumer electronics
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared due to specialized embedded software in aerospaceMore general embedded systems roles in various sectors

Embedded Flight Software Engineers focus on developing software for aerospace applications like satellites and spacecraft, requiring specialized knowledge of aerospace standards. In contrast, Embedded Systems Engineers work across multiple industries, designing software for everyday devices. While both roles involve embedded programming, the industry focus and application environments differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? For Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Embedded Flight Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Embedded Flight Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Flight Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,636 per year, or $80.1 per hour.

Lead, Embedded Software Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max)

L3HHCM20

Wilmington, MA

$135K - $250.50K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Lead, Embedded Software Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max)

Job Code: 37639

Job Location: Wilmington, MA

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

Relocation: Relocation assistance is available to qualified applicants

Sign-on Bonus: A sign-on bonus of up to $30K may be included as part of an offer package for this level 

Job Description: 

L3Harris Space and Mission Systems is seeking a Lead, Embedded Software Engineer for our Wilmington, MA location to join a talented team of experts developing Embedded Flight Software for space-based imaging payloads. Responsibilities include designing, developing, and implementing algorithms, controls, and subsystems for aerospace applications. The role involves the complete software lifecycle from development to testing to operation during missions. 

We look forward to reviewing your application!

 

Essential Functions: 

  • Lead the design and implementation of real-time embedded flight software for space-based imaging payloads.
  • Integrate and test embedded flight systems at the software/hardware level.
  • Understand and apply architectural approaches for software design and implementation.
  • Collaborate with other engineers to plan and develop solutions.
  • Involve in all aspects of software development including design, documentation, testing, code reviews, and mission integration.
  • Support development of test plans, procedures, traceability, reports, flow, and test case design and implementation.
  • Contribute to requirements analysis, design, coding, unit testing, integration, and requirements verification.
  • Create state charts, sequence diagrams, and other UML artifacts.
  • Follow standard software development processes.
  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

Qualifications:  

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering Computer Science or related field and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
  • Experience in embedded software development, system design, debugging, and integration on aerospace applications
  • Experience with RTOS (e.g., VxWorks, FreeRTOS, RTLinux, QNX), simulators (TSIM, VxSIM, SIMIC, MATLAB Simulink), and programming languages (C/C++, Python, scripting).
  • Experience with embedded command and control of mechanisms (e.g., shutters, motors, gimbals), embedded controllers (e.g., PIC, STM, TMS), serial communications (e.g., CAN, TCP/IP, RS422), and distributed messaging (TCP/UDP).

 

Preferred Additional Skills: 

  • Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance preferred
  • Experience in full System lifecycle including requirements flow down and allocation, design, development, test, and sell-off.
  • Knowledge of MBSE tools (e.g., Cameo) and wideband/narrowband telemetry and messaging.
  • Experience with platforms like Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Intel x86, ARM, and System on a Chip.
  • Familiarity with Versal, MicroBlaze, bare metal development, and kernel/device drivers.
  • Proficiency in DevOps practices, Jenkins, and continuous integration tools.
  • Experience in space payload systems and Core Flight System/Core Flight Executive (cFS/CFE).
  • Experience in Command & Control Software, Sensor Processing Systems, and Optical Systems/telescopes.
  • Knowledge of microprocessor/microcontroller architecture and programming, and familiarity with FPGAs.
  • Experience in estimating large software programs for new business opportunities.
  • Experience in developing software for microcontrollers with interfaces (e.g., I2C, SPI, UART, CAN).
  • Develop, customize, and maintain Board Support Packages (BSP) for various hardware platforms.
  • Integrate BSP components, including bootloaders, device drivers, and operating systems.
  • Optimize BSPs for performance, reliability, and efficiency.
  • Working knowledge of image processors, visible cameras, IR detectors, servo motors, actuators and focus mechanisms.
  • Familiarity with Cyber compliance tools (e.g., Fortify Workbench, SonarQube).
  • Familiarity with Familiarity with OMS (Open Mission Systems) and UCI (Universal Command and Control Interface) open architecture standards.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $135,000.00 - $250,500.00. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.