Also called: Embedded Software Engineer (Space)
Writes the code that runs on board spacecraft and rockets, where a single bug can lose a billion-dollar mission.
You write and test code that controls valves, radios, or a rover's wheels, then run it on a 'flat-sat' (the spacecraft's electronics spread across a table). Code reviews are intense because you can't easily fix things once they're in space.
Uses BLS software developer figures; space-company pay is similar or slightly lower than big tech.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in computer science, computer engineering, or aerospace engineering.
Ways in: 4-year college, Self-taught. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering.
Growing much faster than average (about 15% over 10 years).
Medium risk for 10 years. AI writes and tests much code, cutting junior coding; safety-critical review and mission accountability stay human.
Classes: AP Computer Science, AP Physics, AP Calculus, Electronics class.
Official data: O*NET occupation 15-1252.
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