Computer Systems Engineer - Space Payload Emulators - (Experienced or Lead)

As a Computer Systems Engineer , you will support the development and integration of space payload emulators in El Segundo, CA. In support of Boeing Defense Systems next-generation space programs, this role focuses on hands-on hardware/software development for embedded systems (Xilinx SoC/FPGA) and front-end UI/UX control interfaces.

This position is tailored for an engineer who thrives in a hands-on lab environment , working side-by-side with multidisciplinary teams (hardware, firmware, software, and test engineers) to bring up hardware, integrate software/logic, and build intuitive emulator interfaces., Embedded Software & FPGA Platform Integration

• Develop, configure, and maintain embedded software and firmware on Xilinx SoC platforms (Zynq UltraScale+, Versal).
• Implement and debug Processing System to Programmable Logic (PS/PL) interfaces, AXI interconnects, and memory maps.
• Develop and validate Board Support Packages (BSP), PetaLinux/embedded Linux distributions, device drivers, and low-level communication interfaces (PCIe, Ethernet, SPI, I2C, UART).
• Lead hands-on board bring-up, hardware/software integration, and system-level debugging in a lab environment using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and protocol analyzers.

Front-End GUI & Operator Interface Development

• Design and implement responsive, reliable front-end graphical user interfaces (GUIs) using Java or modern JavaScript frameworks (e.g., React, Vue, Angular, or JavaFX/Electron).
• Build control dashboards, telemetry displays, and command interfaces for payload emulation testbeds and operational teams.
• Integrate UI applications with embedded back-end services, APIs, and hardware endpoints for real-time monitoring and control.

Multidisciplinary Lab Collaboration & Hardware/Software Integration

• Partner closely with FPGA logic designers, hardware engineers, and systems testers in a collaborative lab environment to diagnose issues and validate end-to-end emulator functionality.
• Drive rapid prototyping, root-cause troubleshooting, and iterative testing on lab benches and test fixtures.
• Provide technical leadership during hardware/software co-design and integration milestones.

Software Quality & Workflow Optimization

• Utilize Xilinx toolchains ( Vivado, Vitis, PetaLinux, SDK ) for software build pipelines, profiling, and debugging.
• Follow modern software engineering practices, including code reviews, documentation, and version control using Git/GitLab .

• This position requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)
• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (with a focus in Electrical, Mechanical or Aeronautical), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement
• 5+ years of professional experience in embedded hardware/software development and integration.
• Embedded Xilinx Platforms: Hands-on experience developing for Xilinx SoC/MPSoC architectures (Zynq UltraScale+, Versal).
• Xilinx Toolchains: Demonstrated proficiency with Xilinx design and development tools (Vivado, Vitis, PetaLinux, SDK).
• PS/PL & Driver Integration : Proven experience with PS/PL integration, embedded Linux / RTOS, board bring-up, and device driver development.
• Front-End Development : Practical development experience creating user interfaces and GUIs using Java (e.g., JavaFX/Swing) or JavaScript (e.g., React, Node, Vue, Electron) frameworks.
• Lab & Debugging : Strong hands-on lab troubleshooting and debugging skills using lab test equipment (logic analyzers, DMMs, oscilloscopes, JTAG debuggers).
• Team Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and collaborate proactively in multidisciplinary, lab-centric engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

• Lead, Level 4 : 9+ years of related engineering experience listed under the basic qualifications
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience developing custom FPGA IP, working with High-Level Synthesis (HLS), or interfacing with custom hardware peripherals.
• Experience with high-speed serial protocols and network communications (10GbE, PCIe, Aurora, SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553).
• Experience building real-time data streaming and command-and-control (C2) visualization tools for space or aerospace test systems.
• Familiarity with CI/CD build pipelines, automated testing, and containerized workflows (Docker) for embedded targets.
• Demonstrated technical leadership during complex hardware/software integration campaigns.

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidate for this job must satisfy the Company’s Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Typical Education/Experience:

Experienced, Level 3: Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), computer science, engineering data science, mathematics, physics or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor) and typically 5 or more years’ related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience or non-US equivalent qualifications. In the USA, ABET accreditation is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard.

Lead, Level 4: Education/experience typically acquired through advanced technical education from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology (includes manufacturing engineering technology), computer science, engineering data science, mathematics, physics or chemistry (e.g. Bachelor) and typically 9 or more years’ related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience or non-US equivalent qualifications. In the USA, ABET accreditation is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard., This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required., Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Required, This position requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies .

Shift Work:

This position is for 1st shift.

Total Rewards:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range Experienced, Level 3: $119,850 - $162,150

Summary Pay Range for Lead, Level 4: $146,200 - $197,800

At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.