At Open Cosmos we are solving the world's biggest challenges from space, providing businesses, governments and researchers access to more readily available information than ever before - ready for the challenge? Then read on…

Working in our Data Division Our Data Division transforms satellite data into meaningful insights that drive real-world impact. Bringing together our Delivery, Image Processing, Data Platform, and Commercial teams, we develop and deliver high-quality data products, power DataCosmos — our geospatial platform — and ensure our solutions are accessible, valuable, and easy to use. By combining space technology, data science, and customer insight, the team helps organisations turn complex data into action and create positive change on Earth.

What will you be doing? You will be:

Designing, implementing, validating, and maintaining satellite flight software

Supporting ground tools, ensuring software is robust, traceable, and fit for the reliability demands of space missions

Developing features for Linux and RTOS-based systems in line with mission and system requirements

Participating in code reviews, testing campaigns, and CI/CD processes to ensure high software quality standards are maintained consistently throughout the development lifecycle

Maintaining configuration control, documentation, and full software traceability throughout the development lifecycle

Collaborating closely with Systems, Electronics, and Mission Operations teams to integrate and test subsystems, contributing technical expertise that supports effective cross-functional alignment and problem resolution

Contributing to post-launch operations and build and integration activities

Driving continuous improvement in architecture, design, and engineering processes, identifying and implementing changes that enhance software reliability, maintainability, and delivery efficiency

What You’ll Bring

Strong programming capability in Rust,



or solid understanding in C or C++ with the motivation and ability to transition to Rust in a production environment

Proficiency in compiled and object-oriented programming paradigms, with an emphasis on performance, reliability, and correctness

Ability to work in Linux development environments, including scripting and command-line tooling, as part of day-to-day engineering work

Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and automation tools such as GitLab, Jenkins, Docker, and pytest, supporting consistent and efficient software delivery

Ability to apply secure coding and fault-tolerant design principles to software development, ensuring reliability and resilience in mission-critical contexts

Working knowledge of spacecraft subsystems including ADCS, EPS, communications, and payload systems, and how software interfaces with and supports each

Awareness of European space engineering standards such as ECSS, and their practical implications for software development, documentation, and compliance

Understanding of RTOS concepts and their application in embedded and space software environments

Demonstrated familiarity with software verification and validation processes, including testing strategies and traceability requirements for mission-critical systems

Awareness of fault detection, isolation, and recovery principles, and how these inform robust software design in space applications

For this role you can be based in any of our locations.

Why Open Cosmos?

Work at the cutting edge of space technology with customers around the globe

A mission-driven company making space accessible to help solve real-world challenges

A diverse, ambitious, and supportive team

Equal opportunity employer At Open Cosmos, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace built on respect, dignity, and belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we actively challenge bias to ensure every candidate and employee feels truly welcome. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

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📌 Software Engineer - On Board Processing (Madrid)
🏢 Open Cosmos
📍 Madrid