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Autonomy Engineer III – Space Systems

Autonomy Engineer III – Space Systems

CompanyInversion Space
LocationCulver City, CA, USA
Salary$120000 – $144000
TypeFull-Time
DegreesBachelor’s
Experience LevelSenior

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in a technical field such as Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related discipline, or equivalent practical experience in a highly technical environment.
  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in autonomy, robotics software, aerospace software engineering, or an equivalent track record developing complex software systems across industries.
  • Demonstrated expertise developing deterministic algorithms for autonomous operations and/or real-time planning.
  • Strong proficiency in Linux-based distributed systems and programming in Python, C, or Rust.
  • Familiarity with machine learning concepts, particularly deterministic techniques; exposure to CNNs, transformers, or other ML architectures is beneficial.
  • Proven ability to operate effectively within safety-critical, complex system environments.
  • Exceptional communication skills with a strong ability to communicate early and often, providing clarity in technical discussions and a commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and compassionate team environment.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in creating diagrams and delivering thoughtful presentations suitable for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to produce professional documentation and effectively organize complex information for team-wide use.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and deploy deterministic planning and control algorithms for spacecraft reentry and multi-vehicle coordination.
  • Architect fault detection, command arbitration, and robust autonomous mode-switching systems.
  • Integrate and test autonomy software within high-fidelity simulation environments (SITL, HITL).
  • Implement comprehensive autonomous safety measures for all interactions: operator, integration teams, flight operations, and customers.
  • Work collaboratively across diverse teams (flight software, systems engineering, hardware integration) to ensure seamless autonomy integration and team success.
  • Debug and diagnose vehicle systems impacted by autonomy software, ensuring reliability and performance.
  • Develop autonomy infrastructure to command, control, and monitor spacecraft systems.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with spacecraft, autonomous aircraft, or high-performance autonomous vehicles or machines.
  • Familiarity with aerospace regulatory standards, compliance, and safety protocols.
  • Exposure to concept design and design review practices.
  • Experience in software-in-the-loop (SITL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing and validation.
  • Comfort in rapidly iterating new autonomy strategies and collaborating in a fast-paced, innovative team environment.
  • Experience gained through industry, research, startups, community projects, maker spaces, or other non-traditional paths.