Payload Software Engineer (Sr – Principal)

Eclipse Space is actively seeking a Payload Software Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will sit at the intersection of software, RF systems, and satellite hardware — owning the software stack that brings our payloads to life on orbit. You will work closely with antenna, RF, and systems engineers to develop, test, and operate sophisticated satellite radio subsystems, including massive MIMO phased arrays and high-gain parabolic antennas.

This is a high-impact, hands-on engineering position in a fast-paced startup environment. If you thrive on building things that work in space and enjoy bridging the gap between software and hardware, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Manage and route payload traffic between satellite radio subsystems, ensuring reliable and efficient data flow across the platform
• Develop and maintain software for the bring-up, integration, and calibration of massive MIMO phased array antennas
• Support the operation of high-gain parabolic antennas, including software interfaces, health monitoring, and command & control
• Develop and drive both software-based and hardware-based modem implementations in support of satellite communications links
• Collaborate with antenna engineers to design and implement novel measurement methodologies for CI/CD pipelines covering payload components
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
• 5+ years of programming experience in embedded C, C++, or Rust — internships, collegiate clubs, and project work are all considered
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding startup environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly
  

Nice to Haves

• Practical understanding of RF fundamentals and/or communications theory
• Familiarity with RF lab equipment and measurement techniques, including spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators
• Experience working with phased array antenna systems
• Familiarity with HDL and FPGA/ASIC development

Salary:  $145k - $225k