Astrolight is on a mission to connect space and Earth using laser communication. We build systems to send data quickly and securely between satellites, ships, and ground stations, especially in places where traditional radio communication fails. Our technology supports both commercial and defense missions and is designed to perform reliably in real-world conditions. We are a fast-growing, fast-moving team focused on bringing fiber-like connectivity to space and beyond.

We are looking for a Mid-Level Software Engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment, working alongside software and FPGA developers, as well as mechanical, electronics, and optical engineers. Together, you’ll contribute to delivering cutting-edge solutions that enable secure, high-throughput laser communication for Earth, orbit, and beyond.

About our technology

We design all aspects of our products, whether that is the fiber laser, optics, mechanics, electronics, or software. The software technologies we use include:

● Linux-based ARM systems running code written in C/C++

● Embedded STM32 ARM and other RISC processors running the Zephyr RTOS

● CUDA-accelerated image and signal processing on GPUs, written in CUDA-C/C++

● Custom FPGA-based solutions for time-critical tasks

● MATLAB- and Python-based orbital dynamics, atmospheric propagation, and signal path simulations

What you’ll do

We would like you to take ownership and be part of our software development efforts aimed at enabling fast laser links between our ATLAS space terminals and optical ground stations, or between ships carrying our POLARIS terminals. This includes:

● Figuring out where to point the laser to establish a data link

● Tracking fast-moving objects using cutting-edge image sensors

● Orchestrating complex setups involving multiple embedded systems designed in-house

● Enabling remote, unattended operation of our optical ground terminals over a network

You will be free to work on the aspects of our products that showcase your strengths as a developer. We will expect you to:

● Design and maintain an appropriate software architecture for a given task

● Analyze methodologies and develop laser link solutions

● Work closely with our in-house team and contractors to deliver a functioning product

What we’re looking for

First and foremost, we are looking for a fast learner who can take leadership and responsibility while maintaining a passion for innovation. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated results in:

● Coding custom applications for embedded Linux systems

● C++ object-oriented design

● Maintaining and documenting software using Git

● Hardware serial interfaces such as SPI, I²C, UART, and CAN

● Programming in Python and C

● Modern CI/CD practices

Nice to have

Preferred candidates will be familiar with, or have demonstrated interest in:

● Work in the embedded domain

● Basic control theory concepts such as PID control

● Real-time software execution

● CUDA and low-latency GPU-based processing (RDMA)

What we offer

● Stock options

● Private health insurance after the trial period

● Flexible hours and hybrid work schedule

● Small, experienced team working on cutting-edge space and defense technology

Salary

Range from €3,200–4,800 gross/month, depending on experience and skills.