Embedded Software Engineer, In-Orbit WPT Demo Mission (m/f/d)

Focus: TerraSpark's first space-to-Earth wireless power beaming payload launches in 2028, and it needs software that can point, power, and safely shut itself down on command. This role owns the embedded control and telemetry stack for the demo payload: beam shaping and steering logic, RF chain health monitoring, fault handling, and safe operating modes. You will work closely with the RF Engineer and PCB Engineer to turn hardware interfaces into software that actually controls them, and with Space Systems, Thermal, and Structures to fit into the mission as a whole.

What you'll do:

• Design and implement embedded control software for beam shaping and steering, RF chain health monitoring, and safe operating modes.
• Write and integrate embedded code (C/C++ and/or Python for control and automation) for measurement, control, and telemetry.
• Define fault detection and safe shutdown logic so the payload degrades gracefully instead of catastrophically.
• Work closely with the RF Engineer and PCB Engineer on interface requirements (registers, timing, protocols) so hardware and software form one coherent system.
• Set up and run lab test rigs to validate control and telemetry behavior under realistic loads, and feed results back into the software design.
• Collaborate with Thermal and Structures on any control logic tied to thermal limits or mechanical safe states.

What you bring:

• MSc or BSc in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or similar, with several years of hands-on embedded software experience.
• Strong C/C++ skills, including real-time control, telemetry, and fault handling on MCUs or FPGAs that have flown, sailed close to flight, or survived serious lab abuse.
• Comfort working close to hardware: reading datasheets, debugging with a scope or logic analyzer, and working with electronics engineers rather than around them.
• RF or satcom/radar exposure is a plus, not a requirement. If you have it, tell us; if you don't, we care more about your control and firmware fundamentals.
• A calm, hands-on, collaborative approach. You like working with hardware colleagues and are motivated by the idea that if your software doesn't work, there will be hell to pay.