Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Apolink
Job overview
The Principal Embedded Software Engineer at Apolink leads development of critical embedded firmware for satellite relay platforms, impacting in-orbit flight systems.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves owning the full embedded flight software stack, designing real-time embedded software, developing drivers and HAL layers, implementing fault-handling and system state machines, integrating hardware interfaces, building test setups, leading test campaigns, and establishing firmware architecture and standards.
Compensation and benefits
Compensation is based on role, level, location, and experience, including base salary, stock options, performance bonuses, comprehensive health care, 401(k) with matching, flexible vacation, meal credits, and professional development opportunities.
Experience and skills
Requires a Bachelor's or Master's in related fields, 5+ years in embedded software for spacecraft, proficiency in C/C++ for RTOS systems, ARM platform experience, real-time design knowledge, debugging skills, familiarity with spacecraft interfaces, Git and CI experience, and willingness to work in Palo Alto and travel.
Career development
Apolink offers ongoing professional development opportunities and long-term incentives like stock options to support career growth.
Work environment and culture
Apolink values equal opportunity employment, diversity, and compliance with U.S. space technology export regulations, fostering an inclusive and compliant work environment.
Company information
Apolink builds an interoperable satellite relay network using RF and optical links for continuous connectivity in low Earth orbit.
Job location and travel
The position is based in Palo Alto, CA, with in-person work required and some travel expected.
Unique job features
The job features direct impact on flight systems, hardware-software collaboration, and work on cutting-edge satellite relay technology.
Company overview
Apolink is a Palo Alto-based space technology startup founded in 2024 by 19-year-old Onkar Singh Batra, previously known as Bifrost Orbital, and is backed by Y Combinator. The company is developing the world’s most interoperable satellite relay network in low Earth orbit, using a hybrid communication architecture that combines RF and optical technologies to deliver continuous 24/7 satellite connectivity and address orbital dead zones. Apolink recently raised $4.3 million in an oversubscribed seed round at a $45 million valuation, with support from investors including Y Combinator and 468 Capital. Their business model centers on providing reliable, always-on connectivity services for satellites, targeting both commercial and government clients in the defense and space manufacturing sectors. With a small but growing team, Apolink is positioning itself as a key player in next-generation space communications infrastructure.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to highlight expertise in embedded software development for spacecraft, focusing on proficiency in C/C++, RTOS environments like FreeRTOS, and ARM Cortex-M7 platforms to align with Apolink's technical needs.
Emphasize experience in real-time embedded design, hardware-software integration, and fault-handling mechanisms such as watchdogs and system state machines, as these are critical for the Principal Embedded Software Engineer role.
Apply through multiple channels including Apolink's official corporate careers page, LinkedIn job listings, and reputable aerospace job boards to maximize your application visibility.
Connect with current Apolink engineers or team leads in the embedded systems or satellite communications divisions on LinkedIn; use ice breakers like commenting on their recent projects, asking about challenges in satellite firmware development, or expressing enthusiasm about Apolink's hybrid communication architecture.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'embedded flight software,' 'FreeRTOS,' 'C/C++,' 'hardware interfaces,' and 'real-time control logic' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.
Leverage Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailoring your resume, identify the best application platforms, and discover relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus more effectively on preparing for interviews and networking.
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