Lead Software Engineer – Simulation

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visit www.axiomspace.com. Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Lead – Software Engineer, Simulation who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond. POSITION SUMMARY Axiom Space seeks a resilient, high‑energy Lead Software Engineer to spearhead development of a high‑fidelity simulation environment for a commercial space station. This platform models complex vehicle systems and hardware behavior across multiple physical domains, supporting engineering analysis, flight software verification, and mission operator training. The role blends physics‑based modeling with large‑scale simulation platform engineering to deliver robust, scalable capabilities. The ideal candidate can architect simulation frameworks, implement models and features hands‑on, and guide technical direction. Success requires aligning multidisciplinary stakeholders while driving high‑impact simulation development in a fast‑moving environment. KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Lead technical direction, feature planning, and cross‑team coordination for simulation development. Develop and maintain physics‑based models of a spacecraft across multiple domains including mechanics, thermodynamics, fluids, and electrical. Represent system states and interactions across integrated subsystems. Validate models against test data and engineering expectations. Maintain and evolve real‑time and faster‑than‑real‑time simulation platforms for multiple mission use cases. Manage deterministic single‑thread CPU environments and multi‑threaded or GPU‑accelerated execution modes. Ensure deterministic, repeatable simulation behavior across configurations. Define and implement external interfaces, runtime APIs, and internal simulation tooling. Build and maintain CI/CD pipelines for simulation builds, testing, and deployment. Manage containerized development and runtime environments, including image registries and reproducible build systems. Maintain cloud (AWS) and on‑premise compute infrastructure to support large‑scale simulation workloads. Perform vehicle‑level analyses and trade studies using simulation outputs. Develop Python‑based configuration, post‑processing, and visualization tools. Mentor engineers, review designs and code, and troubleshoot complex system‑level issues. Communicate progress, risks, and status to stakeholders while supporting agile project execution. Perform additional job duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS:  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience) Significant experience developing complex simulations of physical systems (real-time and faster-than-real-time) Strong programming skills in C++ and Python Experience ensuring determinism and repeatability in concurrent systems Experience with simulation frameworks such as NASA Trick, NASA GUNNS, or similar Experience modeling multi-domain vehicle systems (thermal, fluid, electrical, etc.) Experience supporting embedded software verification or operator training via simulation Experience with containers (Docker, Podman) Experience with CI/CD systems (GitLab CI, GitHub Actions, etc.) Experience with GPU computing or distributed simulation Experience with AWS or other cloud infrastructure Experience in aerospace, robotics, defense, or other safety-critical domains Experience with multithreaded software or high-performance computing Experience delivering large software systems used by multiple stakeholders Track record of making things happen in ambiguous, fast-moving environments Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high quality results Core Skills Passion for space and the mission Entrepreneurial, growth mindset High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster Core Competencies: Embody our core values of leadership, innovation, and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Accountability Technical Rigor Execution Discipline Pride of Delivery WORK ENVIRONMENT: Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task. Requirements  Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones Physical Requirements Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time) May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time) Equipment and Machines Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.) Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.