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Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Actuators & Control Systems)

Impulse· Software
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Redondo Beach$200k - $300kFull-timePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Senior Embedded Software Engineer focusing on Actuation & Control Systems, responsible for developing real-time embedded firmware for actuated systems on launch vehicles and spacecraft, collaborating with propulsion, avionics, and GNC teams to ensure fault-tolerant operation in harsh space environments.

Responsibilities

  • Develop real-time firmware for controlling: Rocket engine valves and thrust vector control actuators (TVCAs); Satellite propulsion systems, including cold gas and electric thrusters; and Motor-driven systems such as reaction wheels, gimbals, and momentum wheels
  • Implement closed-loop control for: Position, velocity, torque, and pressure regulation; as well as feedback via encoders, LVDTs, resolvers, current sensors, and pressure sensors
  • Interface with motor drivers and redundant actuator systems using protocols like CAN, SPI, UART, Ethernet, RS-422, and BISS-C
  • Design and implement safety-critical state machines for thrust sequences, valve actuation, pressurization, and safe shutdowns
  • Participate in hotfire campaigns, environmental testing, and in-flight diagnostics
  • Write unit-tested and reviewable production firmware for use in both testbeds and spacecraft

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
  • 12+ years of embedded C/C++ development experience for electromechanical control systems
  • Experience using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, hardware debuggers, and source-level debuggers to troubleshoot problems at all layers of the stack
  • Experience implementing real-time control loops, motor commutation, and actuator calibration routines
  • Proficiency working with servo motors, stepper motors, or brushless DC motors
  • Strong understanding of low-level hardware and digital interfaces (I2C, SPI, CAN, UART)

Skills

Required:Embedded C/C++Real-time control loopsDigital interfacesSafety-critical systemsHardware debuggingMotors proficiency

Benefits

  • long-term incentives in the form of stock options
  • medical, vision & dental coverage
  • access to a 401(k) retirement plan
Last updated Jul 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Impulse

Accelerating our future beyond Earth

Accelerating our future beyond Earth

spacevehiclesmobilitypayloads
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