Staff Embedded Linux Software Engineer

Job overview

Staff Embedded Linux Software Engineer is an onsite role in Irvine, CA. The salary range is $160,000–$190,000 per year. Terran Orbital designs, builds, launches, and operates satellites for defense and commercial missions; this role supports satellite systems and payloads. The engineer leads technical work on reliable, fault-tolerant embedded software, mentors junior engineers, and contributes across satellite programs. The role integrates and tests software in simulation and hardware environments to support mission-critical satellite capabilities.

What you'll do

• Lead and mentor junior software engineers
• develop and maintain embedded software for satellite modules
• define and refine requirements with engineering teams
• architect and maintain fault-tolerant software
• serve as technical lead for satellite programs
• create unit and system-level tests
• develop software for specialized payloads
• integrate and test in simulation, flight-replica, flight-vehicle, and hardware-in-the-loop environments
• represent the company in technical working groups and customer interactions.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

staff software engineer

embedded linux

c/c++

satellite systems

fault-tolerant software

payload software

technical leadership

irvine ca

terran orbital

$160k–$190k/year

401(k) match

flexible time off

paid parental leave

tuition reimbursement

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) match, flexible time off, life insurance, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and employee referral benefits.

Why this role

Requires 8+ years of C/C++ development experience in embedded, high-performance, or mission-critical systems. Occasional travel up to 10% is supported. Benefits include company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) match, flexible time off, life insurance, parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

About the employer

Terran Orbital Corporation is hiring for this role. Industry: Engineering Services. Sector: 54.