Flight Software Engineer (Early)

About the role

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

As a member of the flight Software team, you will design, develop, and own the software driving the autonomous operation of Apex’s satellite buses. You will be responsible for developing mission critical systems that operate reliably 24/7, ensuring that Apex’s spacecraft continue to operate in all scenarios.

In this role, you will work closely with both internal teams and external customers, aligning your solutions with company objectives and user requirements. We are looking for motivated engineers who are eager to solve complex problems with a focus on practicality and scalability, and who thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and own mission critical software applications for satellite systems.
• Support commissioning of spacecraft during launch and early operations and ensure software systems remain functional during critical operations.
• Own spacecraft software solutions through the full lifecycle from initial design to deployment.
• Perform unit testing, integration testing, and system-level testing of software components, identifying and resolving any defects or issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and technical roadmaps.

Requirements

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
• 1+ years of total flight software experience
• Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE or equivalent.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, Rust.
• Experience with real time systems running on distributed hardware.
• Knowledge of embedded Linux operating systems, system administration and creating Linux distributions (Yocto).
• Familiarity with satellite systems and protocols, such as CCSDS, and ECSS.
• Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems.
• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), secure communication systems, Protobuf and encryption.

#LI-AB1

What We Offer for Full-time Employees

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
• World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Additional Information

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Itar Requirements

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency.