MADRID 06.08.2026

Head of Embedded Systems and Software

Role Overview

Own the architectural vision and full lifecycle of all embedded software powering ATHENA, from flight-critical firmware to laboratory automation and EGSE software, while leading and growing a team of embedded engineers.

This is your chance to shape the software architecture of a real spaceflight system, from bare-metal to RTOS, where every design decision drives mission success.

Head of Embedded Systems and Software

Responsibilities.

  • Lead the full embedded software lifecycle for the ATHENA propulsion system, from bare-metal to real-time applications and EGSE software.
  • Lead, mentor, and grow a team of embedded software engineers, fostering technical excellence and agility.
  • Define software verification strategies, including HIL testing and automated CI/CD pipelines, to guarantee flight readiness.
  • Drive firmware architecture design and lead the migration from legacy 8-bit bare-metal software to a modern 32-bit RTOS architecture.
  • Work closely with the hardware team to ensure seamless embedded software integration into propulsion systems and laboratory equipment.

Qualifications & Skills.

Must Have

  • At least 7+ years of experience in embedded software development, with proven experience leading or mentoring engineering teams.
  • Professional proficiency in C++ and C for resource-constrained systems.
  • Solid experience with bare-metal development and Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS, ideally FreeRTOS).
  • Deep understanding of microcontroller architectures (from highly resource-constrained 8-bit to modern 32-bit MCUs) and low-level peripherals (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, PWM).
  • Strong competency in Python for scripting, test automation, and laboratory equipment control.
  • Experience establishing version control workflows (Git) and modern CI/CD practices for embedded systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret PCB schematics.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and work autonomously.
  • Fluent in spoken and written English.

Nice to Have

  • Experience in NewSpace, aerospace, or safety-critical industries (medical, automotive, railway, avionics, etc.).
  • Familiarity with space software standards (e.g., ECSS-E-ST-40C) or safety coding guidelines (MISRA C/C++).
  • Experience designing bootloaders (including on-orbit/telemetry updates) and fault-tolerant/fail-safe software mechanisms.
  • Passion for space technology and a willingness to grow within a young and dynamic team.

Benefits & Perks.

A key role in a pioneering space startup, where you will directly impact the development of cutting-edge propulsion technology.

FULL-TIME CONTRACT

A FULL-TIME CONTRACT OF 40H PER WEEK.

FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS

ALLOWING YOU TO MANAGE YOUR SCHEDULE FOR BETTER WORK-LIFE BALANCE.

HYBRID WORK MODEL

WORK REMOTELY UP TO 10 DAYS PER MONTH.

EXTRA HOLIDAYS

IN ADDITION TO 23 VACATION DAYS, ENJOY 6 ADDITIONAL DAYS OFF DURING THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD (FROM 24 DECEMBER TO 2 JANUARY, BOTH INCLUDED).

PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE

PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE, FULLY COVERED BY THE COMPANY.

LEARNING BUDGET

€1000 PER YEAR BUDGET FOR TRAINING, COURSES, AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH.

AUTONOMY AND RESPONSABILITY

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS WILL DIRECTLY SHAPE OUR TECHNOLOGY AND SUCCESS.

OPEN POSITIONS.