Currently, we are seeking a Senior Ground Software Engineer to contribute to our mission in a dynamic startup environment. The main responsibilities of this role include developing cloud-native command and control software for rover missions, shipping production-ready code to AWS environments, and building robust backend systems that interface with spacecraft using industry-standard protocols. This role is full-stack with primary focus on backend development-you'll design and implement data layers, telemetry processing pipelines, and command interfaces that enable mission control, while contributing to frontend systems as needed.
Take the #NextLeap with Lunar Outpost and work on the Pegasus LTV, which will carry NASA astronauts farther than they've ever been before on the lunar surface!
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop backend features for Stargate C2 platform supporting lunar rover operations
- Implement real-time data pipelines handling spacecraft telemetry streams using CCSDS protocols (SPP, AOS, TM/TC)
- Ship production code to AWS environments using infrastructure-as-code practices (CloudFormation, Terraform, or CDK)
- Develop and deploy containerized microservices within Docker and Kubernetes ecosystems
- Write high-performance backend services in Node.js and C++ for real-time telemetry processing
- Contribute to React-based mission control interfaces when frontend work is required
- Develop and release safety-critical software systems following rigorous verification and certification standards
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Math discipline
- 5+ years of professional software development experience
- Production experience shipping code to cloud environments (AWS preferred)
- Strong proficiency in Node.js and C++ development
- Hands-on experience with SQL databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL, or similar) including schema design and query optimization
- Experience working with object storage systems (S3, Minio, or equivalent)
- API development and design experience with production systems
- Experience with containerization technologies (Docker) and container orchestration
- Previous ground software development experience for space programs or aerospace systems
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with CCSDS protocols: Space Packet Protocol (SPP), Advanced Orbiting Systems (AOS), Telemetry/Telecommand (TM/TC), CCSDS File Delivery Protocol (CFDP)
- React experience and frontend development skills
- Experience with message queue systems (Kafka, RabbitMQ, or similar)
- Hands-on experience with observability and monitoring tools (Prometheus, Grafana, DataDog, OpenTelemetry)
Compensation & Benefits: Compensation level and base salary are competitively structured and thoughtfully determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, education, and the scope of the role.
- Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits, with 70% of premiums covered by the employer
- Paid time off: Three (3) weeks per year of vacation
- Retirement plan: Up to 4% employer match on 401(k) contributions
- Paid holidays: 11 company-recognized holidays
- Parental leave
- Educational reimbursement opportunities to support company objectives, continued learning, and career development
