Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Actuators & Control Systems) jobs in United States
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Impulse Space · 1 month ago

Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Actuators & Control Systems)

positionRedondo Beach, CA
timeFull-time
remoteOnsite
senioritySenior Level
money$150K/yr - $200K/yr
date5+ years exp

Impulse Space is focused on developing innovative space technologies, and they are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer specialized in Actuation & Control Systems. The role involves developing embedded software for controlling various actuated systems in launch vehicles and spacecraft, collaborating with multiple teams to design high-performance firmware for harsh environments.

AerospaceManufacturingSpace Travel
badNo H1BnoteU.S. Citizen Onlynote

Responsibilities

Develop real-time firmware for controlling: Rocket engine valves and thrust vector control actuators (TVCAs); Satellite propulsion systems, including cold gas and electric thrusters; and Motor-driven systems such as reaction wheels, gimbals, and momentum wheels
Implement closed-loop control for: Position, velocity, torque, and pressure regulation; as well as Feedback via encoders, LVDTs, resolvers, current sensors, and pressure sensors
Interface with motor drivers and redundant actuator systems using protocols like CAN, SPI, UART, Ethernet, RS-422, and BISS-C
Design and implement safety-critical state machines for thrust sequences, valve actuation, pressurization, and safe shutdowns
Participate in hotfire campaigns, environmental testing, and in-flight diagnostics
Write unit-tested and reviewable production firmware for use in both testbeds and spacecraft

Qualification

Embedded C/C++ developmentReal-time control loopsActuator calibration routinesLow-level hardware understandingServo/stepper motor proficiencyFault detection algorithmsEnvironmental testingUnit testingCollaboration with teams

Required

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of embedded C/C++ development experience for electromechanical control systems
Experience using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, hardware debuggers, and source-level debuggers to troubleshoot problems at all layers of the stack
Experience implementing real-time control loops, motor commutation, and actuator calibration routines
Proficiency working with servo motors, stepper motors, or brushless DC motors
Strong understanding of low-level hardware and digital interfaces (I2C, SPI, CAN, UART)

Preferred

Prior work on rocket engine controller software, including valve sequencing and abort logic
Experience with satellite attitude control systems (ACS), including reaction wheels, magnetorquers, and small thrusters
Familiarity with redundant actuator architectures and fault detection/response algorithms
Exposure to space environment constraints such as vacuum, temperature extremes, and radiation upsets

Benefits

Long-term incentives, in the form of stock options
Medical, vision & dental coverage
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan

Company

Impulse Space

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Impulse Space develops in-space transportation technology for payload delivery to various orbits.
dateFounded in 2021
location
Redondo Beach, California, USA
people-size201-500 employees
web-link
https://www.impulsespace.com

Funding

Current Stage
Growth Stage
Total Funding
$525M
Key Investors
Linse CapitalFounders FundRTX Ventures
2025-06-03Series C· $300M
2024-10-01Series B· $150M
2023-07-24Series A· $45M

Leadership Team

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Eric Romo
President and Chief Operating Officer
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Recent News

Business Insider
The SpaceX Mafia is here
2025-12-25
GeekWire
Startups team up to demonstrate satellite rendezvous using Starfish Space’s navigation system
2025-12-16
GlobeNewswire
Starfish Space Completes Autonomous Rendezvous and Proximity Mission in LEO with Impulse Space
2025-12-15
Company data provided by crunchbase