AI Embedded Software Engineer

We are seeking an experienced AI Embedded Software Engineer to join our Advanced Concepts Group. The successful candidate will lead R&D on-board AI/ML efforts, focusing on deploying cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions on power-constrained devices aboard our nanosatellites. This role reports directly to the Senior Director of Research and Development. 

Responsibilities: 

• Lead research and development of AI/ML algorithms optimized for deployment on power-constrained nanosatellite platforms
• Design and implement embedded AI/ML inference engines for real-time on-orbit decision making
• Develop and optimize neural network models for edge computing applications in space environments
• Integrate AI/ML capabilities into existing satellite firmware and control systems
• Conduct processor-in-the-loop (PIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to qualify AI/ML software implementations
• Research and implement novel AI/ML techniques for autonomous satellite operations and data processing
• Collaborate with hardware teams to define AI/ML processing requirements for future nanosatellite designs
• Develop quantization and compression techniques to reduce model size and power consumption
• Resolve on-orbit and on-ground issues related to AI/ML embedded systems
• Support AI/ML system integration with other satellite components
• Write and maintain technical documentation and research publications
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the company's AI/ML knowledge base 

Required Qualifications: 

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Machine Learning, or related field
• 4+ years of experience in embedded systems development with focus on AI/ML applications
• Proficiency in Embedded C/C++ programming for resource-constrained environments
• Strong background in machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow Lite, PyTorch Mobile, ONNX Runtime)
• Experience with AI/ML model optimization techniques (quantization, pruning, knowledge distillation)
• Capability with Python for AI/ML development and scripting languages like Bash
• Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), specifically FreeRTOS
• Knowledge of edge AI accelerators and specialized AI hardware (NPUs, DSPs)
• Strong mathematical foundation in linear algebra, statistics, and optimization
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git)
• Experience developing on Linux (Ubuntu)
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with changing requirements 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. in Machine Learning, Computer Science, or related field
• Experience with space systems, satellite technology, or aerospace applications
• Knowledge of federated learning and distributed AI systems
• Experience with neuromorphic computing and spiking neural networks
• Familiarity with radiation-hardened computing and space-qualified hardware
• Experience writing Rust for resource-constrained environments (embedded Linux)
• Experience with embedded Linux and containerized AI workloads
• Knowledge of sensor fusion, and autonomous systems
• Publication record in AI/ML conferences or journals
• Experience with FPGA-based AI acceleration
• Familiarity working to coding standards and using static analysis tools 

Tools and Technologies: 

• AI/ML Frameworks: TensorFlow Lite, PyTorch Mobile, ONNX Runtime, OpenVINO
• Edge AI Tools: TensorRT, Neural Network Compiler Stack (TVM), Glow
• FreeRTOS for real-time operating system implementation
• GNU ARM Embedded Toolchain and specialized AI compiler toolchains
• GDB and AI-specific debugging tools for embedded inference engines
• Experience with debugging techniques for AI systems without JTAG access
• Proficiency in processor-in-the-loop (PIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing methodologies
• Experience with AI model validation and verification techniques
• Experience working with Microcontrollers and AI-optimized processors
• CUDA, ROCm or SYCL
• Version control using Git and ML experiment tracking tools (MLflow, Weights & Biases)
• AI development environments and Jupyter notebooks for prototyping 

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office. 

Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying. #LI-MI