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Flight Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yochana

Flight Software Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

The Role Client is seeking a Flight Software Engineer. As part of our early engineering team, your scope of work will focus on developing and integrating the flight software stack end-to-end ...

Hermeus

Flight Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $125K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer, you will work closely with our hardware and systems engineers to design, develop, and implement software for our cutting-edge aircraft systems. Responsibilities:

Hermeus

Flight Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer, you will work closely with our hardware and systems engineers to design, develop, and implement software for our cutting-edge aircraft systems. Responsibilities:

Hermeus

Flight Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer, you will work closely with our hardware and systems engineers to design, develop, and implement software for our cutting-edge aircraft systems. Responsibilities:

Hermeus

Flight Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer, you will work closely with our hardware and systems engineers to design, develop, and implement software for our cutting-edge aircraft systems. Responsibilities:

Impulse Space

Flight Software Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Flight Software Engineer Department: Software Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Compensation: $120,000 - $180,000 / year Description As a Flight Software Engineer at Impulse, you ...

Approach Venture

Flight Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$135K - $225K/yr

Flight Software Engineer - Build Next-Generation Spacecraft Systems for High-Energy Missions! El Segundo, CA | On-site Opportunity Summary Join a venture-backed aerospace startup developing advanced ...

Astro Mechanica

Flight Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $160K/yr

Astro Mechanica is seeking a Flight Software Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is excited to develop software that is used to control and fly our products. You will have the ...

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$35

$53

$74

How much do flight software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight software engineer in California is $53.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.38 and $58.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Flight Software Engineer do?

A Flight Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that controls and monitors spacecraft, satellites, or aerospace vehicles. They ensure the software meets strict performance, reliability, and safety requirements for missions. This includes writing real-time code, integrating with hardware, debugging issues, and optimizing systems for efficiency. They work closely with hardware engineers, systems engineers, and mission operators to ensure seamless functionality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Flight Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Software Engineer, you need strong expertise in computer science, embedded systems, and control theory, usually supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Experience with C/C++, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and aerospace industry standards like DO-178C is highly valued, along with certifications in safety-critical software development. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities set top candidates apart. These skills ensure software reliability, mission success, and seamless collaboration in safety-critical aerospace environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by Flight Software Engineers, and how do they overcome them?

Flight Software Engineers often face challenges such as developing software for safety-critical systems with strict reliability and performance requirements, as well as troubleshooting issues in complex avionics environments. They regularly work under tight deadlines and must rigorously test and validate code to meet aerospace certification standards. Overcoming these challenges involves thorough documentation, close collaboration with hardware and systems engineers, and a commitment to continuous learning about evolving technologies. Employers value engineers who can adapt quickly, employ systematic debugging, and communicate effectively within interdisciplinary teams.
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Flight Software Engineer jobs near you
Flight Software Engineer

Flight Software Engineer

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Summary 

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Flight Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Flight Software Engineering Manager, the Flight Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the critical software systems that control and operate our satellites, ensuring reliable performance and mission success in the challenging environment of space.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop software for unique payloads, including image processing, aero-braking, and propulsive lunar landing
  • Write comprehensive unit and regression tests in existing frameworks
  • Integrate and test software in simulation, flight replica, flight, and hardware-in-the-loop environments
  • Work with multiple engineering teams to establish software requirements and design
  • Work with various engineering teams to commission newly launched satellites

Qualifications and Skills

  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or equivalent field
  • 2+ years of experience developing C++ applications for embedded, high-performance, or critical systems (Level II)
  • Highly motivated, self-starting, and able to perform duties autonomously without supervision
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance

Additional Differentiators

  • Hands-on experience using A.R.M. and Texas Instruments platforms for embedded systems
  • Experience with Linux and GNU tools such as make, G.C.C., and debuggers such as G.D.B.
  • Experience with scripting languages such as bash and Python
  • Experience within the aerospace industry

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