Embedded Software Engineer

pAre you a talented Embedded Software Engineer with a passion for space systems and laser communication technology? Do you want to make a meaningful impact on the future of space communication while working on groundbreaking projects? /ph3About FSO Instruments /h3pFSO Instruments is at the forefront of developing advanced laser satellite communication technology. Together with our partners and shareholders we are committed to strengthening the Dutch space industry and pushing the boundaries of communication systems to enable faster, more reliable and secure connections between satellites, airplanes, drones and ground stations. By pushing the boundaries of what is achievable, we are shaping the future of space communication, both locally and globally. /ph3What are you going to do? /h3pThe software suite under development must seamlessly support a diverse range of optical communication products currently being engineered at FSO Instruments, demanding a highly modular and scalable architecture. Because these systems operate in the harsh and unforgiving environment of space, robustness and resilience are essential design drivers. This places strong emphasis on deterministic behavior, fault tolerance and reliable performance across all mission phases — from launch to end‑of‑life. /ppTypical activities and responsibilities for embedded software engineers at FSO Instruments: /pulliFirmware Development — Implement and maintain embedded C/C++ firmware for microcontrollers, FPGAs’ soft cores, or SoCs that control optical communication subsystems (pointing, acquisition, tracking, modulation control). /liliReal‑Time Control Systems — Develop deterministic control loops for actuators, gimbals and fine‑steering mirrors. /liliHardware Integration — Bring‑up of new boards, debugging interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN, SpaceWire), and validating hardware revisions. /liliOptical Payload Support — Implement drivers and control logic for lasers, detectors, ADC/DAC chains, and optical alignment sensors. /liliCommunication Protocols — Implement and test custom or standardized protocols for inter‑module communication and satellite bus interfaces. /liliSystem Diagnostics — Develop telemetry, logging, fault detection, and recovery mechanisms for space‑grade reliability. Executing reliability analysis in close collaboration with other disciplines. /liliTesting Verification — Write unit tests, HIL tests, and participate in environmental testing (thermal‑vacuum, vibration, radiation considerations). /liliDocumentation Reviews — Contribute to design documents, interface control documents (ICDs), and participate in design reviews. /li /ulh3What do you bring to the table? /h3ulliBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field. /lili5+ years of experience as Embedded Software Engineer or a similar role, preferably in the field of communication technology, space systems or high-tech (semicon). /liliStrong knowledge of embedded software, real-time operating systems, and low-level programming. /liliProficiency in programming languages such as C and C++. /liliFamiliarity with communication protocols and standards used in embedded systems, such as UART, SPI and I2C. /liliExperience with microcontrollers, FPGA’s, System-on-Chips, and hardware/software co-design. /liliKnowledge of laser communication principles and technologies would be advantageous. /liliExcellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative and fast-paced environment. /liliA solution-oriented team player with good communications skills. /liliYou have good command of the English language in word and writing. Good command of the Dutch language is preferable but not mandatory. /li /ulh3What do we offer you? /h3pAt FSO Instruments we have a ‘flat’ organization where people can easily find and help each other. We value a comfortable and inclusive workplace. Furthermore, you can count on, among other things: /pulliA good, market-based salary; /lili31 days off and 8% vacation allowance; /liliPossibility to work from home, maximum 2 days a week. /liliA good pension plan at Zwitserleven; /liliThe opportunity to follow training and courses, or externally, so you can further develop your knowledge; /li /ul #J-18808-Ljbffr