Autonomy Software Engineer – SD - Laurel

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 

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation, or a range thereof, for roles in locations where legally required.  Actual salaries will vary based on several factors, including but not limited to external market data, internal equity, location, skill set, experience, and/or performance.  

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (subject to spousal surcharge).
• Company holidays, floating holidays, and sick time.
• Unlimited PTO.
• Generous 401(k) match.

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.