Staff Software Engineer

Picogrid

$190K — $250K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of backend engineering experience in fast-paced environments using languages like Go, Python or Rust.
  • Strong background in APIs, distributed systems, and real-time data processing.
  • Expertise in relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL) and object stores (e.g., S3).
  • Proficient in HTTP APIs (REST, gRPC, GraphQL) and security models.
  • Experience collaborating with customers to develop impactful software.
  • Ability to work with urgency and uphold high engineering standards.

Responsibilities

  • Design and build high-performance backend systems for military applications.
  • Deploy scalable integration tools connecting hardware and software environments.
  • Solve complex, system-level challenges under pressure.
  • Contribute to the ongoing innovation of the Legion platform.
  • Collaborate with the team to enhance system capabilities and efficiency.

Benefits

  • Significant stock options with high potential upside as an early-stage company.
  • 401(k) with employer matching contributions.
  • Full health coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Unlimited PTO (with a two-week minimum) and 11 paid holidays.
  • Paid parental leave for employees of all genders.
  • Lunch provided in-office, alongside a fully stocked kitchenette.
  • Free EV charging available at the headquarters.
  • Modern office space in El Segundo, CA including quality refreshments.
Full Job Description
About the role

Picogrid is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to join our Legion Platform team. You will design, build, and deploy high-performance, scalable backend systems and integration tools that connect hardware and software systems across all environments and command layers. On the Legion team, your expertise will be critical for solving complex, system-level challenges and advancing a robust platform that is deployed for real-world military missions. This role requires constant innovation and suits an engineer who thrives under pressure and demands their work have immediate, tangible impact on national security.

Required Qualifications
  • 7+ years of hands-on backend engineering experience in fast-paced, production environments using Go, Python, Rust, C/C++, TypeScript, or similar languages.
  • Strong background in APIs, distributed systems, data pipelines, or real-time processing.
  • Deep experience with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL), object stores (e.g., S3, MinIO), and geospatial tools.
  • Strong grasp of HTTP APIs (REST, gRPC, GraphQL) and authentication/authorization models.
  • History of working directly with customers to build and deliver meaningful software.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate with urgency, ownership, and high engineering standards.


Preferred Qualifications
  • U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Exposure to DOD IL5+, Top Secret, and JWICS environments, including understanding of DOD RMF, FedRAMP, or NIST 800-53.
  • Experience supporting Golang-based applications in production.
  • Experience building plugins or integrations for common military command-and-control (C2) platforms (e.g. TAK, Maven, Lattice).


Compensation & Benefits
  • Base salary range: $190,000 - $250,000 per year. Base salary is just one part of your total compensation package at Picogrid.
  • Significant stock options with a high potential upside as an early-stage company
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Full health coverage (medical, dental, and vision insurance)
  • Relocation assistance provided (if applicable)
  • Unlimited PTO (two-week minimum) and 11 paid holidays per year
  • Paid parental leave for both parents
  • Lunch provided when working in-office and a fully stocked kitchenette
  • Free EV charging at the HQ
  • Unique office in El Segundo, CA stocked with quality coffee, snacks, and craft beer


Export Control Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. a7 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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