Software Engineer - On Board Processing
Aim high, go beyond!
At Open Cosmos we are solving the world’s biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…
Working in our Data Division
Our Data Division transforms satellite data into meaningful insights that drive real-world impact. Bringing together our Delivery, Image Processing, Data Platform, and Commercial teams, we develop and deliver high-quality data products, power DataCosmos — our geospatial platform — and ensure our solutions are accessible, valuable, and easy to use. By combining space technology, data science, and customer insight, the team helps organisations turn complex data into action and create positive change on Earth.
What will you be doing?
You will be:
Designing, implementing, validating, and maintaining satellite flight software
Supporting ground tools, ensuring software is robust, traceable, and fit for the reliability demands of space missions
Developing features for Linux and RTOS-based systems in line with mission and system requirements
Participating in code reviews, testing campaigns, and CI/CD processes to ensure high software quality standards are maintained consistently throughout the development lifecycle
Maintaining configuration control, documentation, and full software traceability throughout the development lifecycle
Collaborating closely with Systems, Electronics, and Mission Operations teams to integrate and test subsystems, contributing technical expertise that supports effective cross-functional alignment and problem resolution
Contributing to post-launch operations and build and integration activities
Driving continuous improvement in architecture, design, and engineering processes, identifying and implementing changes that enhance software reliability, maintainability, and delivery efficiency
What You’ll Bring
Strong programming capability in Rust, or solid understanding in C or C++ with the motivation and ability to transition to Rust in a production environment
Proficiency in compiled and object-oriented programming paradigms, with an emphasis on performance, reliability, and correctness
Ability to work in Linux development environments, including scripting and command-line tooling, as part of day-to-day engineering work
Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and automation tools such as GitLab, Jenkins, Docker, and pytest, supporting consistent and efficient software delivery
Ability to apply secure coding and fault-tolerant design principles to software development, ensuring reliability and resilience in mission-critical contexts
Working knowledge of spacecraft subsystems including ADCS, EPS, communications, and payload systems, and how software interfaces with and supports each
Awareness of European space engineering standards such as ECSS, and their practical implications for software development, documentation, and compliance
Understanding of RTOS concepts and their application in embedded and space software environments
Demonstrated familiarity with software verification and validation processes, including testing strategies and traceability requirements for mission-critical systems
Awareness of fault detection, isolation, and recovery principles, and how these inform robust software design in space applications
For this role you can be based in any of our locations.
To apply, you must have the legal right to work in your chosen location.
Please submit your application and CV in English.
Why Open Cosmos?
Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe
A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges
A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team
Equal opportunity employer
At Open Cosmos, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace built on respect, dignity, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively challenge bias to ensure every candidate and employee feels truly welcome. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
- Division
- DATA COSMOS
- Department
- DATA
- Role
- Software Engineer - On Board Processing
- Locations
- Harwell, UK, Porto, Portugal, Athens, Greece, Barcelona, Spain
- Remote status
- Hybrid
- Employment type
- Full-time
About Open Cosmos
Open Cosmos is dedicated to solving Earth's critical challenges using actionable data and connectivity from space. The company offers a complete, end-to-end service for satellite missions, from design and manufacturing to launch and operations, simplifying access to orbit. A key initiative is the Open Constellation, a mutualised satellite infrastructure that allows organisations to access vital information. This collaborative model makes space simple, affordable, and scalable, enabling partners to share data and assets for wider global coverage and more frequent insights. By empowering clients in Earth observation, IoT connectivity, and secure communications, Open Cosmos is building a better future powered by space technology to understand and connect the world.