Join us at Portal!
Portal Space Systems is a Seattle-based startup developing innovative space technologies and spacecraft. Our flagship product is a revolutionary new spacecraft called Supernova, which utilizes solar thermal propulsion and a flexible power system to enable unprecedented levels of maneuverability and mission flexibility.
We are seeking an experienced Software Development Engineer to develop mission-critical satellite software and firmware. The ideal candidate will have proven flight experience, a strong background in embedded software development for satellite systems, and expertise in real-time operating systems (RTOS), fault-tolerant computing, and spacecraft autonomy. This role will focus on designing, developing, testing, and deploying onboard software that ensures the success of satellite missions, including low-Earth orbit (LEO), geostationary (GEO), and deep-space missions.
To apply, please send your cover letter and resume to info@portalsystems.space with the email subject: Senior Software Development Engineer – Satellite Software & Firmware Application
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop flight software for satellite platforms, including avionics, attitude determination and control systems, power management, and onboard data handling.
- Design and implement firmware for embedded processors and FPGAs used in satellite subsystems.
- Work with real-time operating systems (RTOS), embedded Linux, and space-grade processors.
- Develop autonomous fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) mechanisms to ensure mission reliability.
- Implement and optimize spacecraft communication protocols (e.g., CCSDS, SpaceWire, CAN, UART, Ethernet).
- Perform software validation, verification, and integration with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations and satellite testbeds.
- Support pre-flight testing, launch preparations, and in-orbit operations, including remote software updates.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ECSS, NASA cFS, DO-178C, MISRA, CubeSat standards).
- Collaborate with partner organizations on satellite software development.
- Mentor junior software engineers.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields.
- 10+ years of experience in developing flight software and firmware for satellites.
- Strong proficiency in C, C++, and Python for embedded systems and satellite software.
- Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and low-level hardware-software interfaces.
- Knowledge of satellite communication protocols (e.g., CCSDS, SpaceWire, CAN, RS-422).
- Understanding of fault tolerance, redundancy, and radiation-hardened computing for space missions.
- Experience with version control systems (Git) and modern software development best practices.
- Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, simulators, and satellite software testbeds.
- Proven experience with flight-proven software deployed on operational satellites.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Familiarity with satellite command and data handling systems, embedded Linux, and space-grade processors.
- Experience with CubeSats, small satellites, or GEO satellite constellations.
- Knowledge of flight software frameworks (e.g., NASA Core Flight System (cFS), FreeRTOS, VxWorks).
- Background in autonomous spacecraft operations and AI-driven onboard decision-making.
- Experience with secure satellite communications, encryption, and cybersecurity in space systems.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Portal. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage. Portal is planning to establish future access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks. Employees typically have 2-3 weeks of paid vacation per year plus company holidays.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
