Autonomy Software Engineer

About the role

York Space Systems was founded to radically improve spacecraft affordability and reliability, transforming, and enabling next- generation space mission operations worldwide. Today, York is one of the most innovative aerospace companies, specializing in end-to-end customer solutions and the rapid production of spacecraft platforms. York’s complete Space Segment Solution includes spacecraft production, payload integration, system integration & test, launch services, ground segment services, and mission operations, enabling customers to leverage York’s existing technology solutions to get to orbit rapidly and responsively. We’re looking to expand our team across the board.

We are looking for talented, cross-domain software engineers to join a small, empowered strategic development team focused on rapid prototyping and advanced development across York’s software portfolio. This team operates ahead of program need proving out new capabilities, de-risking emerging technology, and maturing prototypes to the point where they can transition into production programs. Scope spans across York software: Full stack web development, onboard embedded and real-time software, ground and cloud applications and tooling, and autonomy and machine learning.

We are looking for an Autonomy Software Engineer who is passionate about pushing the boundaries of modern technology to advance space vehicle onboard autonomy.

Not all skills below are required, we encourage you to apply if you have an interest in learning!

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop embedded flight software in C/C++ for spacecraft systems

Translate designs and requirements into high-quality, maintainable software that meets both functional and visual standards

Build reusable code for components, shared libraries, and scalable services for use across the platform

Construct state machine models for autonomous mission workflows

Engineer algorithms and business logic to promote scalability and automation

Contribute to software architecture, requirements, and interface definitions

Support on-orbit operations, debugging, and anomaly resolution

Develop unit tests and documentation for internal users and customers

Develop integration tests against simulation tools to validate behavior against realistic mission scenarios

Participate in agile ceremonies including sprint planning, standups, and retrospectives

Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

4+ years of software engineering experience with a strong focus on embedded software development

Proficiency in C/C++

Experience working in embedded Linux environments

Experience with modern messaging frameworks and API technologies used in distributed systems

Experience with Git in a collaborative, multi-contributor environment

Demonstrated ability to mentor engineers and drive code quality through reviews and design discussions

Proven ability to collaborate across engineering, design, and operational stakeholders

Exceptional problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguous requirements independently and drive to resolution

Strong verbal and written communication skills, including presenting technical concepts to non-technical audiences

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment

Active security clearance or ability to obtain one

Willingness to work full-time in our Laurel, MD office; this position does not support remote or hybrid work.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience identifying mission states, mapping rules between states, and proving which states are symmetric or unreachable

Experience with embedded Linux systems (drivers, networking, system-level debugging)

Experience with spacecraft, aerospace, or safety-critical systems

Experience with container-based installation and deployment strategies, including Docker and CI/CD pipeline integration

Experience supporting on-orbit operations or live systems

Familiar with vehicle simulation tools and methodologies, including modeling spacecraft dynamics, guidance and control behaviors, and mission‑specific scenarios

Benefits

In addition to compensation, York Space Systems is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance along with PTO and a 401K.

How To Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the “Apply” link at the top of the page. York Space Systems will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until the position is closed. York Space Systems provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, military or protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Must have permanent authorization to work in the United States. This policy applies to all terms and conditions or employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. YORK SPACE SYSTEMS IS AN EEO EMPLOYER.