Embedded Systems Engineer

Darwin Recruitment are currently hiring for an Embedded Software Engineer on behalf of a start-up space business in London that are specializing in autonomous robotics for orbital operations. The company is developing a platform-agnostic robotic arm and associated autonomous manipulation/vision software as a service. Notably they emphasise that they're not building the full spacecraft, but a system that can integrate with host spacecraft or tugs to enable servicing or defence functions in orbit. Their mission is to develop the first "Protect and Defend" capability for high-value space assets in orbit. Their flagship product, is their hardware-agnostic, AI-enabled autonomy software suite that enables them to augment any off-the-shelf spacecraft with the ability to autonomously detect, characterise, and reversibly neutralise orbital threats. By building on the proven space heritage of their best-in-class satellite-bus partners and fully integrating into a single unified platform, they deliver an end-to-end, autonomous in-space bodyguarding service.

What You'll Do

* Design and take ownership of core flight software for advanced space payloads and mission-critical systems.

* Develop updatable, fault-tolerant software to support complex autonomous operations in orbit.

* Prototype and validate key system concepts to de-risk development and establish technical feasibility and performance bounds.

* Build toward a scalable, modular, and reusable software stack that enables rapid iteration and future mission extensibility.

* Collaborate closely with hardware and AI/ML teams to enable seamless integration.

* Drive continuous improvement through iterative testing, data-driven feedback loops, and system-level refinement.

Qualifications

* BEng/MEng in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.

* Strong proficiency in C++ / Python.

* Experience in developing in modern C++ for Linux based Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS).

* Strong communicator and self-starter; able to work independently and in a collaborative team.

* Demonstrated skills in debugging and performance characterisation.

* Experience with Linux, Git, and CI/CD pipelines.

Preferred Skills & Experience

* Good understanding of communication protocols.

* Familiarity with containerization tools (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes) and OTA update provisioning.

* Experience with BSP generation, real-time kernel configuration, build and deployment processes.

* Experience with NVIDIA SoC platforms or similar embedded Linux systems.

* Background with the space industry.

* Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

* Proven experience in system integration and working with multidisciplinary teams.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.