Software Engineer (m/f/d) –Space Robotics

Start Date: 04/2026
Area: Munich/Gilching
Full time

KINETIK Space is a space robotics start-up based in the Munich region, Germany. Founded by an expert team from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) with decades of experience in real space robotic operations in orbit on board the International Space Station (ISS) and deep space exploration. We offer an array of intelligent solutions in space robotic manipulators and end effectors. The KINETIK Space Robotic Technology is backed by a continuing close collaboration with DLR, along with its decades of space robotics development and operations. Our mission is to bring this cutting-edge technology and know-how to the rapidly growing space sector, for both agency clients as well as commercial partners such as launchers and satellite operators.

About the Position

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Software Engineer (m/f/d) to support the development of advanced space robotic systems.

You will work closely with our team of hardware, control, and systems engineers to design, implement, and validate software for real-world robotic applications operating in space environments.

The ideal candidate should bring a combination of the following: strong software engineering expertise, hands-on robotics experience, and a structured, solution-oriented mindset.

Your Tasks

• Design and develop software for space robotic manipulators and subsystems
• Implement control, communication, and monitoring software components
• Contribute to system architecture and interface definitions
• Integrate sensors, actuators, and embedded systems into the robotics software stack
• Develop simulation and testing environments for robotic validation
• Execute and document software verification and validation tests
• Support system integration and on-hardware commissioning
• Optimize performance, reliability, and safety of robotic software systems
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electronics, and systems engineering teams Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards

Relevant skills

Required:

• Degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, Aerospace Engineering, or a comparable field
• Strong programming skills in C/C++ and/or Python
• Experience with Linux-based development environments
• Solid understanding of software architecture and clean coding principles
• Experience with robotic systems, real-time systems, or embedded software
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g. Git)
• Structured and analytical working style
• Good oral and written communication skills in English (German a plus)
• Team-oriented, proactive, and quality-driven mindset

Desired:

• Knowledge of robot kinematics, dynamics, and motion planning
• Familiarity with real-time control systems
• Knowledge of space systems, aerospace standards, or safety-critical software development
• Space industry experience a plus

Join us if you:

• Want to work on cutting-edge robotic systems that operate in orbit
• Enjoy solving complex interdisciplinary engineering challenges
• Thrive in small, agile teams with high autonomy
• Want to take ownership of real space projects from concept to operation
• Are motivated to help bring advanced robotics into space missions
• Want to help build the next generation of intelligent space robotic systems
• Like working in a small, agile teams with a high degree of autonomy
• Want to help build the next generation of intelligent robotic systems for space

Art der Stelle: Vollzeit, Teilzeit, Werkstudent

Leistungen:

• Flexible Arbeitszeiten
• Gleitzeit
• Homeoffice-Möglichkeit
• Mitarbeiter-Rabatt
• Zusätzliche Urlaubstage

Arbeitsort: Vor Ort