Embedded Software Engineer

Space Forge is a fast-growing advanced materials company. Our goal is to exploit the extreme temperature, microgravity and ultra-high vacuum conditions available in low earth orbit (LEO) to manufacture materials that cannot readily be grown terrestrially. Returning these materials to earth, we aim to revolutionise the semiconductor market and to make space work for humanity. To achieve this, we have developed a range of technologies including the world’s first returnable and reusable satellite platform, the ForgeStar®.

We are looking to hire a full time mid to senior level Embedded Software Engineer - Space to join our Software team.

 What will you do?

• Embedded software design for deployment in ground and space applications
• Coding in embedded C/C++
• Documentation and testing
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as systems and electronics engineering to deliver great software design that meets the requirements of the mission

Key responsibilities of the role:

• Taking software requirements for a complete subsystem (e.g. motor driver or communication system), and design and build software to meet those requirements
• Reviewing electronics schematics, processor datasheets, peripheral datasheets, and peripheral interface (protocol) definition documents
• Writing documentation covering the architecture, design, APIs, protocols, and implementation
• Build unit tests, integration tests, subsystem tests, and full-system tests.  This will include writing system and subsystem test scripts.  It will also include writing and executing manual testing plans
• Mentoring members of the team, sharing your knowledge and experience
• Peer review of design and code in line with Agile PR practices

Technical skills:

• Developing in C/C++ for embedded Real Time operating Systems (RTOS) [Essential]
• Experience with hardware level communication protocols (e.g. CAN, QSPI, UART) [Essential]
• Experience of implementing software at the HAL, for example to access low-level microprocessor registers for ARM Cortex M series and microprocessor peripherals, such as DMA, Ethernet MAC
• Demonstrable experience of working across the full software lifetime development cycle
• Ability to understand electronics schematics and device datasheets
• Experience with UML
• Use of Python for test scripts and data analysis

Soft skills:

• Knowledge of Agile and Waterfall working practices
• Experience with Slack, Jira and Microsoft365 as productivity tools

If you have any of these skills please ensure they are obvious on your CV and you should highlight them in your application answers.

Why Space Forge?

We believe in a future where our most polluting industries are moved off the planet, built for sustainability, and returned back to Earth for the benefit of all. Space is the next step for our manufacturing needs.

At Space Forge, we believe in creating the best possible workplace that suits every single person that joins us.

• Flexitime hours - 40 to be worked across Monday-Friday as fits both your needs and the needs of the role
• Hybrid remote working in the UK possible with high spec equipment offered
• 33 days holiday including bank holidays
• Pension scheme at 4% matched
• Charity or cause you’re passionate about? Up to 5 volunteering days a year to support the things closest to you and make an impact
• Super cool office and factory - the coffee is on us (and it’s certified carbon neutral too, our snazzy machine does anything from the humble americano to a superb flat white)
• Pizza pay day - okay, it’s not always pizza, but if you’re at the office on pay day, lunch is on us
• Your mental health is important! You’ll have access to Spill and Health Assured- an all-in-one mental health support platform offering completely anonymous therapy sessions to our whole team
• Working with a passionate, friendly and highly motivated team
• Maternity / Paternity benefits beyond statutory

Salary range for this role: £45,000 - £60,000 per annum, depending on knowledge, experience and skills.

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and that starts with hiring diversely. However you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role at Space Forge.

If there are any adjustments that would help improve your experience with Space Forge, please do let us know when you apply.

The closing date for applications is Monday 25th May 2026.