Principal Flight Software Engineer

We're seeking a motivated Principle Flight Software Engineer to help build a revolutionary ‘lighter than air’ flight vehicle in Sunnyvale, CA. You will work within a dynamic engineering and design team to help plan, conceptualize, rapidly prototype, test and implement innovative solutions for the design, fabrication, and assembly of large experimental flight vehicles. We believe in fast-cycle development and approach to flight systems development with the motto "build a little, test a little, learn a lot.” This unique position allows for hands-on contributions through all phases of development, from concept to flight of an experimental aerospace vehicle.

We are seeking a mission-driven, passionate software engineer to help develop the infrastructure, testing tools, and flight software.

• Supporting the development of flight software for the integrated flight computer
• Designing, coding, and integrating graphical pilot cockpit displays
• Developing and extending simulation of hardware components for SIL/HIL
• Performing and troubleshooting flight hardware bring-up
• Creating ICDs and other technical documentation

• 10-15+ years of experience in a similar role
• Proficient in C, C++ and Python
• Proficient with Git version control
• Comfortable with both Windows and Linux development environments
• Experience with embedded development, real-time operating systems
• Self-starter with a history of project ownership
• B.S. in computer science, computer engineering, or related field

• Experience with C# development on Windows
• Familiar with NASA’s open-source core Flight System (cFS)
• Experienced with ARM-based microcontrollers (STM32 or Teensy)
• Experience with Continuous Integration practices and tools
• Comfortable with CMake build tools
• Experience with VxWorks 7
• Exposure to Rockwell PLC tools and ladder logic programming

• Relocation assistance
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
• Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
• Parental leave
• Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) matching up to 6%
• Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
• Monthly wellness stipend
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
• Mental health benefit
• Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
• An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

• Criminal background check clearance
• Drug test clearance wherever applicable

The base salary range for this role is $170,000-220,000, which is determined based on experience, geography, and qualifications. The base salary is one component of the total compensation package, which includes a very competitive annual bonus, 401K Match, and other generous benefits. While we believe competitive compensation is a critical aspect of your decision to join us, we do hope you also spend time considering why our mission and culture are right for you.

LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.

Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.