Senior Spacecraft Software Engineer

Spire Global; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space analytics firm in Glasgow is seeking a Spacecraft Software Engineer to develop and maintain GNSS-related software. The role requires expertise in C++ or Python, experience in FPGA development, and strong knowledge of DSP techniques. You will enhance scientific applications by collaborating closely with flight operations and ensuring data delivery. The position operates in a hybrid model, requiring a minimum of three days in the office, focusing on impactful contributions and fostering a culture of learning.

Benefits

Hybrid work model

Equal opportunity employer

Background checks for candidates

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with relevant technical qualifications.
• Solid background in DSP techniques in RF or GNSS.
• Prior experience building telemetry and data visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain scientific and command & control software for GNSS satellites.
• Operate ground-based systems for data extraction and delivery.
• Collaborate with flight operations for high-quality data delivery.

Skills

C++

Python

FPGA development

DSP techniques

Cloud-based systems

GNSS signal processing

Telemetry tools

Data visualization

Job description

We are looking for a Spacecraft Software Engineer (GNSS) to join our team working at the intersection of satellite payloads, scientific computing, and data delivery systems. In this role, you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining both the flight and ground software that powers our satellite-based GNSS missions. You’ll work across system layers—from embedded software to cloud data pipelines—to help ensure the accurate and timely delivery of mission-critical scientific data to our customers.

This is a high-impact role where autonomy, creativity, and technical breadth are key.

What You’ll Do as a Senior Software Engineer:

• Develop and maintain scientific and command & control software for GNSS-based satellite payloads using a variety of software stacks.
• Build and operate ground-based automation systems for efficient data extraction, transformation, and delivery from the satellite to end users.
• Collaborate closely with flight operations to troubleshoot and ensure consistent, high-quality data delivery.
• Engage with other system engineers, payload developers, and mission operators to continuously evolve the software in support of scientific objectives.
• Participate in code reviews, testing, and documentation to uphold software reliability and traceability.

Who You Are (Required Qualifications):

We’re looking for someone with at least 5 of the following qualifications:

• Proficient in at least one of C++ or Python, and capable of picking up new tools and languages as needed.
• Experience in FPGA development (VHDL or HLS) for signal processing or control systems.
• Solid background in DSP techniques and theory, especially in the context of RF or GNSS.
• Familiarity with GNSS signal processing and/or scientific applications such as GNSS‑RO, GNSS‑R, or PNT algorithms.
• Skilled in cloud-based systems (e.g., AWS), backend development, and managing data via scalable storage/database solutions.
• A lifelong learner—curious, adaptable, and open to new challenges outside your immediate expertise.
• Demonstrates strong work ethics and a focus on impactful contributions to the mission and team.
• Capable of independently navigating technical challenges and making forward progress without constant direction.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience working on satellite payloads or in the aerospace domain.
• Experience building telemetry and data visualization tools.
• Contribution to open-source scientific or aerospace-related software projects.

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office.

Access to US export-controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying.

About Spire

We improve life on Earth with data from space. Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is Global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

Kindly be advised that communication regarding your application may come from @spire.com, @recruiting.spire.com, or from Candidate.fyi (our scheduling tool).