Principal Embedded Software Engineer

About Apolink:

Apolink is building the world’s most interoperable satellite relay network in low Earth orbit. Our hybrid communication architecture combines RF and optical inter-satellite links to enable real-time, continuous connectivity for satellite operators across industries.

About The Role:

As the Principal Embedded Software Engineer at Apolink, you will own critical parts of the firmware stack that run on our in-orbit relay platforms. You’ll develop low-level control code, integrate with spacecraft hardware, and build the autonomy features that allow our systems to negotiate links and operate independently in space. This role involves tight hardware-software collaboration and direct impact on flight systems.

Responsibilities:

• Own the full embedded flight software stack for Apolink’s satellite platforms

• Real-time embedded software design for satellite platforms (C/C++, RTOS, HALs)

• Develop drivers, HAL layers, and real-time control logic on FreeRTOS or similar

• Design and implement robust fault-handling, watchdogs, and system state machines

• Integrate and test hardware interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, RS-422, CAN, GPIO, etc.)

• Build ground test setups and simulation environments for firmware validation

• Participate in PDR/CDR and lead embedded software test campaigns

• Establish firmware architecture, coding standards, and test coverage strategies for future FSW scalability

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field

• 5+ years of experience in embedded software development for spacecraft systems.

• Proficient in C/C++, especially for bare-metal and RTOS-based systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, Zephyr)

• Experience with ARM platforms like Cortex-M7 or equivalent

• Familiarity with deterministic real-time design, timers, interrupts, and power-aware firmware

• Comfortable debugging with logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, and JTAG tools

• Strong grasp of spacecraft or robotics interfaces, including sensors, radios, and actuators

• Git-based development, CI tools, and structured documentation practices

• Ability to work in-person or willingness to relocate to Palo Alto, CA

• Willingness to travel for work

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation at Apolink is determined based on role, level, location, and alignment with market benchmarks. Individual base salary is assessed on a case-by-case basis, reflecting job-related experience, technical expertise, and overall fit. In addition to salary, Apolink offers long-term incentives such as stock options and discretionary performance bonuses. Benefits include equity participation, comprehensive health care, 401(k) with company matching, flexible vacation, catered meal credits, and ongoing opportunities for professional development.

Additional Information

To conform to the U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apolink Communications is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.