Chief Engineer - Software Engineering

Job Description

Aquinas Consulting is currently looking to fill a Chief Engineer – Software Engineering job for our direct client in Cedar Park, TX. In this role, you will serve as the top technical authority guiding the architecture, design, and implementation of software systems across Firefly’s major programs—including launch vehicles, lunar landers, and spacecraft. You will lead cross-functional efforts to deliver mission-critical software while ensuring technical excellence, robust system integration, and forward-looking innovation in areas such as AI and autonomous navigation.

Chief Engineer – Software Engineering Job Responsibilities:

Provide technical leadership across all software development initiatives, ensuring architectural coherence and mission readiness

Lead software design reviews and enforce rigorous validation through simulation, HIL testing, and mission rehearsals

Collaborate with avionics, power, and comms teams to manage software interfaces and system integration

Guide risk mitigation strategies and maintain performance budgets (CPU, memory, timing)

Lead the adoption of advanced technologies including AI and computer vision for autonomous spacecraft operations

Mentor and grow software engineering talent while promoting a culture of technical rigor and continuous improvement

Communicate with stakeholders, customers, and partners to provide technical guidance and status updates

Represent the company at conferences, reviews, and industry events to promote innovation and technical excellence

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field

10+ years of experience in embedded or flight software development, particularly in aerospace applications

Expertise in C++, systems engineering, requirements management, and interface design

Deep understanding of software testing, verification, and safety-critical environments

Proven leadership experience managing cross-disciplinary teams and complex software projects

Familiarity with tools such as Jira, Confluence, and simulation environments

Strong communication skills and ability to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders

Master’s degree or government space program experience is a plus

Please note: Applying to this role is an agreement to have your information entered into our database and acknowledgement that a recruiter will reach out to you either by phone, email, and/or text message regarding this and similar job opportunities.

Aquinas Consulting is a woman and minority owned company headquartered in Milford, CT that provides Engineering, Information Technology (IT), and Manufacturing staffing solutions throughout the US. We take pride in 20 years of service to our clients, our hiring managers, our consultants, and our local community. Aquinas is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and committed to considering all qualified applications without regard to race, genetic information, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.

Full-time