Head of Embedded Systems and Software

As the Head of Embedded Systems and Software, you will own the architectural vision and lifecycle execution for all software powering our ATHENA propulsion system, spanning mission-critical flight firmware and bare-metal to embedded software, laboratory automation, and Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) software. You will be in charge of the architecture design, implementation, and continuous improvement of highly reliable, fault-tolerant embedded solutions.

This role requires an engineering leader who can prioritize tasks effectively, work with agility, and take full ownership of firmware and software development.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• End-to-End embedded lifecycle ownership: lead the design, development, testing and maintenance of embedded software for our ATHENA propulsion system, from bare-metal to real-time application and EGSE software.

• Team leadership and scaling: lead, mentor and grow a small team of embedded software engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and agility.

• Mission assurance: define software verification strategies, including Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing and automated CI/CD pipelines, to guarantee flight readiness.

• Architecture design and migration: define and structure firmware and software components to create a modular, scalable, and maintainable system, and lead the migration from legacy resource-constrained (8-bit microcontroller) bare-metal software to a modern 32-bit RTOS embedded architecture.

• Technical feasibility assessment: evaluate design concepts and propose robust technical solutions.

• System integration: work closely with the hardware team to ensure seamless integration of embedded software into our propulsion systems and laboratory equipment.

• Technical reviews and documentation: participate in design and milestone reviews, ensuring the highest quality and alignment with project goals.

You will be the head of our Embedded Systems and Software team, which is part of our Electric Propulsion department. This team is in charge of designing, developing, testing, and maintaining all firmware and software controlling our ATHENA propulsion system and laboratory equipment.

We are looking for (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.

We also value (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.

• A key role in a pioneering space startup, where you will directly impact the development of cutting-edge propulsion technology.
• 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, fully covered by the company.
• Learning & Development – €1000 per year budget for training, courses, and professional growth.
• Autonomy and responsibility – your contributions will directly shape our technology and success.

Here is a quick overview of the recruitment process:

• Application review: we carefully assess your CV and experience.

• Culture and values interview: a chat with our People team to ensure we share the same mindset and values.

• Technical interview: meet the engineering team and showcase your technical skills.

• Sometimes the hiring process will require a technical exercise to assess how you could apply logic and structure to different scenarios.

• Final interview with Founders: align expectations and discuss your potential impact at IENAI SPACE.