Embedded Software Engineer III - RUST

GROW WITH US AND STAY EXTRAORDINARY:
Launch your career to new heights with Innoflight—one of San Diego’s fastest-growing Aerospace and Defense innovators. Here, visionary minds engineer the future of space technology through pioneering, compact, and cyber-secure solutions. From software-defined radios to cutting-edge cryptographic systems and avionics, everything we build powers the next era of New Space. Join our small, agile, and mission-driven team where your work has real impact and your growth has no limits. We’re not just reaching for the stars—we’re engineering them. Let’s innovate the infinite, together.
A DAY IN THE LIFE:
As an Embedded Software Engineer III – RUST, you’ll develop advanced embedded software solutions for satellite avionics and payload data processing systems. You’ll implement real-time monitoring, power management, and secure communications software for low-SWaP flight systems, interfacing with sensors, communication buses, radios, and COMSEC devices. You’ll collaborate closely with hardware and FPGA teams to deliver rugged, reliable, and integrated solutions that meet demanding aerospace requirements.
WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Develop Embedded Software: Design and implement software for multi-core application processors integrated with FPGA systems (e.g., Xilinx, Microsemi, Microchip, Vorago) using C/C++ and RUST.
• Work on ARM and RISC-V Architectures: Develop software targeting embedded Linux and RTOS platforms, including configuration of bootloaders (GRUB, U-Boot) and Linux kernel customization.
• Implement Networking and Security Protocols: Build secure communication layers at the RFC level (IP, TLS, IPsec) and interface with SPI, I2C, UART, GPIO, PCI, PCIe, Ethernet, and SpaceWire standards.
• Develop Cryptographic Solutions: Contribute to software involving AES, RSA, ECDSA, ECDH, and other secure systems.
• Translate Requirements: Convert customer and system-level specifications into software requirements and design documents.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with hardware, FPGA, and systems engineers to ensure seamless integration and performance of embedded solutions.
• Test, Debug, and Integrate: Support hardware/software integration, debugging, and validation throughout the product lifecycle.
• Manage Software Lifecycle: Track development tasks, features, defects, and manage build processes and software releases using industry-standard tools and methodologies.
• Document and Present: Create and maintain software documentation and present designs and technical updates to internal teams and external stakeholders.

YOU’RE AWESOME AT:

• Advanced Embedded Development: You thrive in designing software for multi-core, low-SWaP aerospace systems using C/C++ and RUST.
• System Integration: You excel at collaborating with hardware, FPGA, and systems engineers to deliver fully integrated solutions.
• Secure Software Development: You have experience implementing cryptographic systems and secure communication protocols.
• Technical Leadership: You communicate clearly, mentor peers, and translate complex technical concepts into actionable designs.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• 5 or more years of experience developing embedded software for aerospace, defense, or similar systems.
• Proficiency in embedded C/C++ and RUST for real-time applications.
• Experience with embedded Linux, RTOS, bootloader configuration, and kernel customization.
• Strong understanding of networking and communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, TCP/IP, PCIe, Ethernet, SpaceWire).
• Ability to interpret complex technical documents, including schematics, standards, and specifications.
• Experience with software version control systems, issue tracking tools, and build/release management.
• Hands-on experience with parallel-processing frameworks such as OpenCL or CUDA.
• Familiarity with COMSEC requirements and secure software development practices.
• Knowledge of aerospace or defense software development standards and compliance requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical discussions with peers and customers.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The starting base salary for this position ranges from $130,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on the candidate’s job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to a competitive base salary, Innoflight offers a well-rounded compensation package that includes a Profit-Sharing Bonus and a Cash Performance Bonus to reward both individual and company performance. Additional benefits include:

• 401(k) with 3% company match (automatic enrollment)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, HSA & life insurance
• 10 paid holidays + 120 hours PTO (starting in year one)
• Access to ancillary benefits such as critical illness, accident, disability, legal and pet insurance.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE WORKING HERE:

• Flexible Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off—whether you use it to recharge, work on a passion project, or spend time with family, the choice is yours.
• Continuous Learning & Development: We’re serious about professional development. From tuition reimbursement to internal "Ask Me Anything" sessions and weekly “Lunch & Learns,” we make learning a core part of the job.
• Mission-Driven Culture: We aren’t just building tech—we’re enabling the next era of space exploration. Our Culture Ambassadors help lead initiatives around inclusion, positivity, recognition, and transparency. Here, your voice is heard, your work is respected, and your individuality is celebrated.

BE YOU, WITH US:
At Innoflight, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone belongs. We recognize that great talent comes in many forms, and you don’t need to meet every requirement to bring value to our team. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply—even if you don’t check every box.
YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Potential new employees must successfully complete a background check which includes criminal search, education certification and employment verification prior to hire. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S as you must have the ability to obtain a security clearance. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.
A NOTE TO STAFFING AGENCIES:
Innoflight does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies, recruiters, or any third-party sources. Any such submissions will be considered property of Innoflight, and no fees will be paid in the event a candidate is hired from an unsolicited referral.
To California residents applying for this job, please read Innoflight’s CCPA Notice: https://www.innoflight.com/careers/california-consumer-privacy-act-notice-for-job-applicants.

#LI-Onsite