Flight Software Test and Validation Engineer

at  The Exploration Company

Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.
We want you as a talented Flight Software Test and Validation Engineer to help us in our mission by revolutionizing our spacecraft testing capabilities through advanced test and validation technology

You will be successful in this role if you are able to help us:

• Define and refine the architecture of our test platform based on the existing test ecosystem to ensure optimal performance and scalability.
• Lead discussions with stakeholders to gather requirements and ensure alignment with overall project objectives.
• Integrate the simulator into the test framework
• Perform make or buy tradeoffs; collaborate with external partners or vendors to request, evaluate and integrate third-party simulation framework, models or tools.
• Develop tools and interfaces for data visualization and analysis within the simulation environment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of the test platform with other systems.
• Support the integration with test hardware
• Setup DevOps pipelines for continuous testing
• Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of the test platform.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In your capacity as a Flight Software Test and Validation Engineer, your role will be continuously evolving, but day to day your duties will include:

• Taking ownership of the test platform, including defining its architecture, components, and interfaces.
• Deployment and operations of test tools
• Conducting tests of the flight software
• Ensure integration between flight software and the test platform
• Providing technical guidance and support to junior engineers and team members.
• Collaborating with the GNC team to ensure seamless integration of the simulator into the test framework.
• Collaborating with the Avionics team for integration of the test platform into hardware in the loop test
• Actively participate in system-level tests and provide support for troubleshooting and resolving integration issues.
• Keeping up with industry standards and emerging technologies in the area of testing

You will be successful in this role if you are able to help us:

• Define and refine the architecture of our test platform based on the existing test ecosystem to ensure optimal performance and scalability.
• Lead discussions with stakeholders to gather requirements and ensure alignment with overall project objectives.
• Integrate the simulator into the test framework
• Perform make or buy tradeoffs; collaborate with external partners or vendors to request, evaluate and integrate third-party simulation framework, models or tools.
• Develop tools and interfaces for data visualization and analysis within the simulation environment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of the test platform with other systems.
• Support the integration with test hardware
• Setup DevOps pipelines for continuous testing
• Drive continuous improvement efforts to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of the test platform

In the role of Flight Software Test and Validation Engineer ideally, you will have the following:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, five years of professional work in a related area.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing simulation platforms for aerospace or similar complex systems.
• Proven experience in real-time distributed system design, implementation, and debugging, with a focus on timing constraints, synchronization, and deterministic behaviour in safety-critical applications.
• Strong background in software development, with proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB/Simulink.
• Familiarity with hardware in the loop (HIL) and software in the loop (SIL) testing methodologies.
• Experience with containers such as Docker for deployment and management of simulation environments.
• Strong software architecture background.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences