Impulse Space · 2 months ago
Senior Embedded Software Engineer (Actuators & Control Systems)
Redondo Beach, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$150K/yr - $200K/yr
5+ years expImpulse Space is focused on developing innovative space technologies, and they are seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to work on Actuation & Control Systems. The role involves developing embedded software for various actuated systems across launch vehicles and spacecraft, collaborating with multiple teams to ensure high-performance and reliable firmware.
AerospaceManufacturingSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
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
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)
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State
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
Stock options
Medical, vision & dental coverage
401(k) retirement plan
Company
Impulse Space
Impulse Space develops in-space transportation technology for payload delivery to various orbits.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$525MKey Investors
Linse CapitalFounders FundRTX Ventures
2025-06-03Series C· $300M
2024-10-01Series B· $150M
2023-07-24Series A· $45M
Leadership Team
Eric Romo
President and Chief Operating Officer
Recent News
Business Insider
2025-12-25
Company data provided by crunchbase