> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4598486-director-of-flight-software-engineering](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4598486-director-of-flight-software-engineering). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Director of Flight Software Engineering

- **Company:** Xona Space Systems
- **Location:** Burlingame, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Experienced
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Automation of Tests, Unit Testing, C++ (Programming Language), Configuration Management, Software Quality, Computer Engineering, Continuous Integration, Embedded Software, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Software Architecture, Real-Time Operating Systems, Software Engineering, Systems Integration, SC Clearance, Integration Tests, Information Technology
- **Published:** November 6, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.careerbuilder.com/job-details/director-of-flight-software-engineering-burlingame-ca--6f6404e8-6ae1-42c1-94f7-d6514fb20eaa

## About the Role

Software Engineering, GPS (Global Positioning System), Leadership, Embedded Systems, Software Engineering, Realtime Operating System, Software Development, Embedded Software, High Reliability Software, Validation Testing, * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related STEM field (or equivalent practical experience; additional years of relevant experience may substitute for formal education)

 * 10+ years of professional software engineering experience, including significant time in embedded, real-time, or high-reliability systems
 * 3+ years of people leadership experience managing software engineers or technical leads (hiring, performance management, career development)
 * Demonstrated experience leading software architecture and delivery for complex systems (aerospace, automotive, defense, or similar domains preferred)
 * Hands-on background with modern software practices, including CI/CD pipelines, configuration management, and automated testing, * 5+ years developing or leading embedded/flight software in aerospace or space systems
 * Direct experience taking satellite or spacecraft software from early design through launch and on-orbit operations
 * Experience architecting or managing software for multi-satellite fleets, including over-the-air updates, fault management, and constellation-scale operations
 * Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), space flight software frameworks (e.g., cFS, F´, or similar), C/C++, and hardware/software integration & test environments
 * Track record of building high-reliability processes and cultures in fast-moving hardware/software organizations
 * Ability to drive consensus across multi-disciplinary teams and influence technical and program decisions at the senior leadership level

For U.S. Roles: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

For U.K. Roles: To comply with U.K. regulations, this role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks, and successful candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).

## Description

* Lead and grow the Flight Software team (embedded developers + verification & validation engineers) responsible for the scalable onboard software architecture running across the Pulsar constellation.
 * Define and evolve the flight software architecture, interfaces, and development roadmap in close partnership with systems, avionics, payload, GNC, and ground segment teams.
 * Own end-to-end delivery: requirements decomposition, design, implementation, unit/integration testing, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) validation, and support through launch and on-orbit operations.
 * Build a high-performing organization through hiring, coaching, individual development plans, and a culture of ownership, technical excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
 * Establish and continuously improve software development practices (configuration management, CI/CD, unit testing, code quality, documentation) that scale with constellation growth and over-the-air update needs.
 * Drive quality, reliability, and process maturity - measuring team output against program commitments and implementing improvements that reduce risk and cost.
 * Partner with senior leadership on technology strategy, long-term roadmap recommendations, and resource planning for current and future satellite programs.