Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

We are seeking an Industrial Software Engineer to help us in our mission by developing middleware that interfaces with Beckhoff PLC systems and enables robust, real-time communication with our test infrastructure.

You'll design and maintain software that abstracts PLC communication and exposes clean APIs for our operator-facing interfaces and data analysis platforms.

Key responsibilities:

• Design, implement, and maintain a middleware layer that communicates with Beckhoff TwinCAT PLCs using ADS.NET
• Expose real-time telemetry and control interfaces through robust APIs (e.g., gRPC, WebSockets, or REST)
• Implement symbol mapping, subscription handling, reconnect logic, and a simulation mode to support testing workflows
• Collaborate with HMI, PLC, and test engineers to align on data models, safety-critical interactions, and performance requirements
• Contribute to the reliability and maintainability of our test infrastructure by ensuring fault tolerance, clear observability, and long-term maintainability

What we would love to see from you:

• Proficiency in C# / .NET and familiarity with service-based architectures
• Practical experience with and additional languages like Python or JavaScript/TypeScript
• Experience integrating real-time systems with near-real-time applications (e.g., HMIs, data services)
• Ability to design well-structured APIs and data models for reliable communication across systems
• Collaborative mindset to align service integration with HMI and PLC teams
• Solid understanding of software design patterns and best practices
• Hands-on experience with agile software development methodologies
• Motivation to work in a fast-paced environment with challenging timelines
• High attention to detail with an ability to balance quality & speed
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Desirable:

• Hands-on experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 and the ADS protocol
• Experience in API design with gRPC
• Exposure to containerization with Docker
• Familiarity with HIL/SIL setups, test automation, or control software in aerospace/automotive contexts
• Understanding of industrial networking (e.g., EtherCAT, OPC UA) or safety-critical software constraints

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:

• We're Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind
• We're Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them
• We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It's a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly.

The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.