Command and Data Handling Engineer

Your role

You’ll architect and implement the flight-software stack and push code from bench tests to on-orbit updates. You’ll ensure each satellite runs autonomously and safely, turning in-orbit data into actionable ground insights so every subsystem meets its mission marks. You'll have a huge influence on the direction of the software and system development of our satellite.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the on-board flight software stack — design, implement, and test real-time Rust/C/C++ on RTOS or Embedded Linux, from BSP/bring-up to application logic.
• Build subsystem software interfaces — define and implement ICDs/APIs and drivers/middleware for subsystems.; integrate over common buses (CAN, UART, SPI, I2C, SpaceWire as applicable); handle timing, concurrency, and fault containment at boundaries.
• Ship code from review to orbit — push through CI/CD, support launch, and deliver over-the-air updates during operations.
• Build prototypes, simulations, and telemetry analysis tooling — develop SIL/HIL rigs and mission sims; instrument systems; analyze telemetry to validate designs and quantify CPU/memory/bandwidth/power constraints.
• Build autonomous FDIR logic —detect, isolate and recover from SEUs, sensor drop-outs and thermal excursions without ground intervention.
• Design the command & telemetry pipeline — implement end-to-end commanding, telemetry, and event logging, transforming CCSDS frames in orbit into MQTT topics and cloud dashboards on the ground.

Fundamental Requirements

• Proven experience of writing software for previously flown spacecrafts
• Experience building production embedded or real-time systems in C/C++ or Rust on RTOS or Embedded Linux.
• Strong understanding of standardized space communication protocols such as CCSDS and on-board buses such as CAN, I2C, UART, SPI and SpaceWire.
• Familiarity with ECSS and NASA flight software development tools
• Experience taking code through unit, integration & HIL tests and shipping via CI/CD (exposure to MISRA-C or ECSS a plus).

Why [Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk]?

• Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations.
• Unmatched Ownership and Impact – You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.
• Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package –Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc.
• Hybrid Work - A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week.
• Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Support - We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.