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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Software Architect - **Company:** IO Associates - **Location:** Leuven, Belgium - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Agile Methodology, C++ (Programming Language), Embedded Software, Firmware, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Description Language, Hardware Design, Scrum Methodology, Software Architecture, Verilog, VHSIC Hardware Description Language (VHDL), DO-178B - **Published:** September 23, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerjet.be/jobad/be6347546c563a25de64fe67b316cadcdc ## About the Role * Proven expertise in developing embedded firmware using C/C++ for microcontrollers, ideally within aerospace or related high-reliability sectors. * Familiarity with hardware description languages such as VHDL or Verilog, and experience working alongside FPGA engineers. * Demonstrable experience owning the architecture of embedded systems from concept to deployment with a thorough understanding of safety standards like ECSS-E-ST-40, DO-178C, or similar. * Skilled in creating detailed technical documentation and qualification evidence required for space hardware certification. * Strong leadership abilities, capable of guiding small teams of engineers and establishing a robust technical environment. * Excellent communication skills, with fluency in English, enabling clear articulation of complex concepts and design rationale. Desirable Skills & Experience * Prior experience working in space or satellite systems manufacturing. * Knowledge of industry-specific standards such as ECSS, ASD S Series, or NASA requirements. * Experience with risk management processes and safety analysis related to space or aeronautical hardware. * Familiarity with Agile or Scrum methodologies tailored for hardware development. * Additional language skills or additional technical certifications related to space or embedded systems. ## Description This pivotal position has arisen as part of an exciting strategic expansion, focusing on the development and realisation of advanced embedded systems critical to space missions. The Software Architect will take a leading role in designing, guiding, and overseeing embedded software across multiple projects, ensuring technical excellence from initial concept through to flight deployment. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence groundbreaking space hardware, working with a talented team and cross-disciplinary engineers, shaping solutions that will operate in the most demanding environments imaginable. Responsibilities * Defining and documenting comprehensive software architecture and design decisions to underpin space-qualified embedded systems. * Setting high standards for coding, review, testing, and documentation, ensuring strict adherence to space industry regulations and standards. * Leading the development team, mentoring engineers, and fostering a culture of quality, innovation, and continuous improvement. * Collaborating closely with avionics and control engineers to develop firmware interfaces and integrated systems. * Working with the product assurance team to gather and present evidence for qualification, traceability, verification, and certification processes. * Managing the full lifecycle of embedded software, from conceptual design through validation and in-flight deployment. * Representing the technical integrity of the software in reviews with customers and stakeholders, defending design choices and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. * Nurturing a proactive approach to problem-solving and supporting the team to meet challenging project milestones. ## Related Videos - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) - [Playing Pong on a shoulder press machine](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100140-playing-pong-on-a-shoulder-press-machine) - [We (don't) need a software architect!?!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/663-we-don-t-need-a-software-architect) - [Agent Smith Gets Hardware: Autonomous IoT Hacking From Debug Port to Cloud API](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100258-agent-smith-gets-hardware-autonomous-iot-hacking-from-debug-port-to-cloud-api) - [What I learned as a developer from accidents in space](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/642-what-i-learned-as-a-developer-from-accidents-in-space) - [When Agents Meet Legacy: Never Change a Running System](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100320-when-agents-meet-legacy-never-change-a-running-system) ## Related Articles - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [The 12 Best Jobs for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/401-the-12-best-jobs-for-software-engineers) - [7 Important Tips That Every Software Developer Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/101-7-important-tips-that-every-software-developer-should-know) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated)