Senior Embedded Software Engineer – Networking

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 a Senior Embedded Software Engineer – Networking, you will design, develop, and integrate advanced embedded software solutions that power satellite and aerospace avionics and payload data processing systems. These solutions span real-time monitoring, Linux board support packages, secure networking, and low-level sensor/communications interfaces. In this role, you’ll collaborate with Systems, Hardware, and FPGA engineers to deliver rugged, Low-SWaP cryptographic products while ensuring the highest levels of reliability and security. You’ll also serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME), providing technical leadership and mentorship to the engineering team.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Design & Implement: Develop embedded software and cryptographic solutions for multi-core processors and FPGA-integrated architectures.
• Network & Secure: Implement RFC-compliant networking and security protocols (IP, TLS, IPsec) and high-speed standards (10 GHz+).
• Develop & Optimize: Build software for ARM Cortex, RISC-V, and embedded Linux/RTOS environments with focus on performance and reliability.
• Integrate & Debug: Interface with hardware through SPI, I2C, UART, PCIe, Ethernet, SpaceWire, and conduct lab-based validation.
• Apply Cryptography: Integrate AES, RSA, ECDSA, ECDH to secure embedded systems per government cryptographic standards.
• Lead & Mentor: Provide technical guidance, review designs, and support junior engineers in building reusable, high-quality code.

YOU’RE AWESOME AT:

• Embedded Development: Expert in C/C++ and memory-managed languages (Rust, Go) for secure embedded systems.
• Linux Expertise: Skilled in embedded Linux systems, kernel configuration, and system bootloaders.
• Networking Protocols: Proficient in high-speed networking and communications protocols with proven experience in secure implementations.
• Cryptography: Strong grasp of cryptographic principles applied to aerospace and defense systems.
• System-Level Thinking: Ability to interpret schematics, debug hardware/software integration, and optimize performance.
• Leadership: Trusted SME with proven ability to mentor and elevate engineering teams.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 9+ years of experience in embedded software development, with emphasis on secure cryptographic systems.
• Proficiency in C/C++ and advanced memory-managed embedded languages (Rust, Go).
• Deep experience with embedded Linux, kernel, and bootloader development.
• Proficiency in networking/communications protocols, including secure communication standards.
• Familiarity with cryptographic systems (AES, RSA, ECDSA, ECDH).
• Demonstrated experience with software integration, debugging, and system-level validation.
• Experience developing for ARM Cortex and RISC-V processor architectures.
• Knowledge of interconnect standards (SPI, I2C, UART, PCI, PCIe, Ethernet, SpaceWire).
• Familiarity with OpenCL, CUDA, or parallel processing frameworks.
• Experience interpreting government cryptographic standards for aerospace systems.
• Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and technical communication skills.
• Proven ability to mentor and support junior engineers in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The starting base salary for this position ranges from $170,000 to $215,000 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.
REFERRALS:
We love a good referral! If you know someone that would be a great fit for this position, please share!
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