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Embedded Flight Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$62K - $140K/yr

They work on developing and debugging embedded software as well as executing software and system-level tests in various engineering environments, including complex software-in-the-loop simulations ...

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

$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. • ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$147K - $194K/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 ...

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Develop real-time embedded software using an RTOS. * Develop device drivers and interfaces to a ... Systems programming skills including algorithms, data structures, concurrency and optimization.

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Quincy, MA · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Develop real-time embedded software using an RTOS. * Develop device drivers and interfaces to a ... Systems programming skills including algorithms, data structures, concurrency and optimization.

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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 Jun 16, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
Flight Software Engineer, Distinguished

Flight Software Engineer, Distinguished

Draper

Cambridge, MA

$100K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

Draper is looking for a highly skilled Flight Software Engineer, Distinguished to join the Mission Software Architectures and Applications group. The engineer develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets. They design and develop resilient, fault tolerant, real-time, highly reliable software solutions in the application domains of undersea, terrestrial, air, hypersonics and space. The Engineer is well-versed in the full mission-critical software development life cycle, from architecture conceptualization, requirements analysis, design and documentation through development, testing and release. They collaborate across multiple interdisciplinary teams to plan, build and test new functionality. They work on developing and debugging embedded software as well as executing software and system-level tests in various engineering environments, including complex software-in-the-loop simulations and real-time hardware-in-the-loop environments. The candidate will be expected to follow and push for continuous improvement of software development best practices on complex projects. They will also be expected to provide mentorship to more junior software engineers.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms with supervision.
Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficient or problems.
Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction - contribute to requirements development and architecture solution ideation.
Responsibility for subset of engineering scope.
Identifies program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies.
Actively mentor less experienced engineers.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Excellent development and troubleshooting skills on embedded targets.
Excellent knowledge of OS coding techniques IP protocols interfaces and hardware subsystems.
Expertise in software development for real-time systems.
Mastery of high level development languages (e.g. C/C++, Rust)
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of software configuration management tools defect tracking tools and peer review processes.
Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
Experience with UML/SysML.
Experience with in-circuit emulators, JTAG debuggers and laboratory test equipment.
Education
Requires a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
Experience
Requires 10-15 years experience in Software Engineering or related.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$100,000.00 - $275,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.