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Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

About Lynk

Lynk is the inventor of satellite direct to device or D2D technology, and has the world’s only commercial license from the FCC to operate a commercial D2D system. Today, Lynk allows mobile network operators' subscribers to send and receive text messages to and from space via standard unmodified, mobile devices. Lynk’s service has been tested and proven on all seven continents, has regulatory approvals in more than 30 countries and is currently being deployed commercially based on more than 40 MNO commercial service contracts covering approximately 50 countries.

Our technology will enable all 8 billion people on the planet to stay connected with the existing standard phone in their pocket. Everywhere. No matter what.

By joining Lynk, you will have the opportunity to directly touch the lives of billions. Your mission will be to bring mobile broadband to billions, pull hundreds of millions out of poverty, and save countless lives.

Job Summary

The Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk will be developing a variety of flight software applications for commanding and controlling our satellites. This includes developing our satellite command and data handling system software, in addition to supporting software for both its primary (payload) and secondary radio communications functions. The software will initially be tested on the satellite prototype in a lab environment “flatsat” that simulates orbit operations. The software engineer will also be responsible for implementing methods of data acquisition to ensure successful testing, verification, and validation.

We build spacecraft fast! So, the perfect candidate for this role will have significant previous experience designing, developing, and testing software on rapid timelines. We are looking for engineers that enjoy a challenge and have a track record of creative thinking to solve unconventional problems.

Attention... Experience with satellites is not a requirement for this position. If you are a systems-level software engineer with a passion for tackling new and exciting domains, do not hesitate to apply! We are always looking for talented individuals that can bring a new perspective.


Core Responsibilities
You will be responsible for design, development, and testing of all spacecraft flight software including that for our spacecraft Command & Data Handling, Power, Communications, and Guidance, Navigation, & Control Systems. This includes:

  • Developing Linux applications that implement the major functions required by our satellite flight system.

  • Writing this software in Rust targeting an embedded Linux environment.

  • Working in a small, agile team to manage the software development lifecycle (requirements definition, design, implementation, test, and verification) for individual projects.

  • Helping to create policies and best practices for the flight software team’s usage of the Rust programming language.

  • Creating embedded software to interact with satellite devices/electronics using CAN, I2C, SPI, RS-422, RS-485, etc. protocols.

  • Implementing inter-application coordination and communications using standard inter-process communication or IPC mechanisms available in Linux.

  • Developing test software to support unit, integration, and system testing of all flight software functions.


Required Qualifications

  • A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Software, Electrical, Aerospace, or in a related engineering field.

  • 5+ years of professional software engineering experience.

  • Advanced knowledge of the Rust programming language.

  • Demonstrated experience working with multiple programming languages, such as, C, C++, Python, Rust, operating systems, and development environments.

  • Demonstrated experience with all phases of the software development life cycle.

  • Experience with developing software to interact with hardware devices.

  • Experience with inter-process communication or IPC mechanisms.

  • Experience with the following: Linux, Git, CI/CD.

Helpful Qualifications

  • Experience developing and testing software for SmallSats / CubeSats.

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop integration and testing.

  • Experience with the following: Protocol Buffers, ZeroMQ, gRPC.

Job Location

Washington, DC area

Average salary estimate

$135000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$120000K
$150000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer (Rust), Lynk

Join Lynk as a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer in Falls Church, and be part of a groundbreaking team that is redefining global communication! At Lynk, we’ve developed the world’s only commercial satellite direct to device technology, enabling mobile operators to connect users with satellites seamlessly through standard mobile devices. Imagine facilitating communication for billions of people worldwide and pulling millions out of poverty—this is your chance to make a real impact! In this role, you’ll dive into developing flight software applications that control and command our cutting-edge satellites. From crafting satellite command systems to innovating data handling software, your work will be pivotal in ensuring our technology thrives. You’ll be developing Linux applications in Rust to ensure rapid iteration and deployment of features, all while working with a small, agile team dedicated to pushing boundaries. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy creative problem-solving, this role is a perfect fit. Don’t worry if you don’t have prior satellite experience; if you’re a systems-level software engineer eager to tackle new challenges, we encourage you to apply! With Lynk, you’re not just writing code—you’re contributing to a purpose-driven mission of connectivity worldwide, powered by your expertise and innovative spirit. Let’s embark on this journey together, making history as we connect the Earth through space!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer (Rust) Role at Lynk
What are the responsibilities of a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk?

As a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk, your main responsibilities will include designing, developing, and testing flight software for our satellites. This entails creating command and data handling systems, interfacing with satellite hardware, and implementing software in Rust for an embedded Linux environment. You'll work on a variety of applications, ensuring successful testing and validation. Your role will also involve collaborating with a small agile team, managing the software lifecycle, and setting best practices for the use of Rust language in our projects.

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What qualifications are required to apply for the Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer position at Lynk?

To be considered for the Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer position at Lynk, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Software, Electrical, Aerospace, or a related engineering field, along with over 5 years of professional software engineering experience. You should have advanced skills in the Rust programming language and a solid understanding of various programming languages including C, C++, and Python. Experience with the software development lifecycle and hardware interaction is also essential.

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How does working at Lynk as a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer contribute to global connectivity?

By working as a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk, you directly contribute to revolutionary technology that connects people to mobile networks via satellites. This role enables you to utilize your skills to develop software that empowers billions of users globally to communicate effectively, even in the most remote areas. Your work helps facilitate connections that can uplift communities and improve lives, making it a profoundly rewarding opportunity.

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What programming languages should a Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk be familiar with?

A Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer at Lynk should be proficient in the Rust programming language, as it is vital for developing flight software applications in an embedded Linux environment. Additionally, familiarity with C, C++, and Python is crucial, as well as knowledge of various development tools and frameworks. This diverse skill set ensures the engineer can effectively tackle the challenges associated with satellite software development.

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Can someone apply for the Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer position without previous satellite experience?

Yes, candidates can apply for the Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer position at Lynk even if they do not have previous satellite experience. Lynk values systems-level software engineers who are passionate about new technologies and possess strong programming skills. If you can demonstrate significant experience in software development and a willingness to learn, you are encouraged to apply!

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer (Rust)
What is your experience with the Rust programming language as it pertains to spacecraft software development?

In your response, highlight your specific experiences with Rust, focusing on projects where you implemented it for embedded systems or software development. Discuss any challenges faced and how you overcame them, showcasing your problem-solving abilities within the context of rapid software development cycles typical in aerospace engineering.

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How do you ensure software quality and reliability in flight software applications?

Discuss the methodologies you use to maintain software quality, such as unit testing, integration testing, and code reviews. Emphasize collaborative practices within your team and outline how these contribute to maintaining high standards in your projects.

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Can you share a challenging problem you faced in software development and how you resolved it?

Provide a specific example that showcases your analytical and creative thinking skills. Detail the problem, your approach to finding a solution, and the outcome, demonstrating your expertise and resilience in software engineering.

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What is your understanding of the software development lifecycle, particularly in aerospace projects?

Explain your familiarity with the stages of the software development lifecycle—requirements definition, design, implementation, testing, and verification. Give examples of how you've navigated these stages in past projects and how you ensured adherence to timelines and quality standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe your experience with inter-process communication (IPC) mechanisms.

Talk about specific IPC mechanisms you've used in previous projects, how they facilitated communication between processes, and what advantages and challenges you encountered. Highlight your comfort in integrating these IPC methods within satellite systems.

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What protocols do you have experience with that are commonly used in satellite systems?

Outline the various protocols like CAN, I2C, SPI, or RS-422 that you have worked with. Share anecdotes of how you applied this knowledge in real-world scenarios involving data transmission and device management.

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How do you approach collaboration within a small agile team?

Reflect on your experiences within agile teams. Discuss communication strategies, project management tools you prefer, and how you ensure collaboration leads to effective outcomes. Emphasize the importance of adaptability in fast-paced environments.

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What is your experience with hardware-in-the-loop integration and testing?

Share examples where you engaged in hardware-in-the-loop testing, describing the process and benefits it provided to the software development cycle. Highlight your technical skills in integrating software with hardware components.

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How do you keep up with advancements in aerospace technology and software development?

Discuss sources you rely on, such as industry journals, online courses, or professional organizations, to stay informed about current trends and technologies. Mention how ongoing education informs your work and keeps your skills sharp.

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Why are you interested in the Senior Satellite Flight Software Engineer position at Lynk?

Express what excites you about joining Lynk specifically. Reflect on their mission, the innovative technology they develop, and how you believe your skills and experiences align with their goals. This will demonstrate your passion and genuine interest in contributing to their future.

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DATE POSTED
March 21, 2025

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