Principal Embedded Software Engineer (Actuators & Control Systems)

Impulse Space is building embedded control software for launch vehicles and spacecraft, with a focus on Actuation & Control Systems. In this onsite role in Redondo Beach, CA, you will develop safety-critical firmware and closed-loop control that helps command actuated systems under demanding, real-world conditions.

You will join a team working on real-time, fault-tolerant embedded systems that coordinate thrust sequences, propulsion actuation, and motor-driven components across test and flight contexts. This position requires deep experience in embedded C/C++ for electromechanical control systems and strong debugging skills across the full software and hardware stack.

What you’ll do

• Develop real-time firmware to control rocket engine valves and thrust vector control actuators (TVCAs), including satellite propulsion systems (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 using feedback from encoders, LVDTs, resolvers, current sensors, and pressure sensors
• Interface with motor drivers and redundant actuator systems using protocols including 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
• Support hotfire campaigns, environmental testing, and in-flight diagnostics
• Write unit-tested, reviewable production firmware for use in both testbeds and spacecraft

Required 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 troubleshooting across all layers using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, hardware debuggers, and source-level debuggers
• 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 including I2C, SPI, CAN, and UART

Skills and technologies

• Languages: C, C++
• Interfaces and protocols: CAN, SPI, UART, Ethernet, RS-422, BISS-C, I2C
• Debugging tools: oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, hardware debuggers, source-level debuggers

Compensation and benefits

Compensation is listed as USD 200,000 - 300,000 per year. Impulse Space also provides long-term incentives through stock options, plus medical, vision & dental coverage and access to a 401(k) retirement plan.

Preferred background

• Prior work on rocket engine controller software, including valve sequencing and abort logic
• Experience with satellite attitude control systems (ACS), including reaction wheels, magnetorquers, and small thrusters
• Familiarity with redundant actuator architectures and fault detection/response algorithms
• Exposure to space environment constraints such as vacuum, temperature extremes, and radiation upsets

Additional information

Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.