Senior Spacecraft Software Engineer

Spire; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A space analytics company in Glasgow is seeking a Spacecraft Software Engineer to develop software for GNSS satellite payloads. The role involves collaboration across systems and ensuring high-quality data delivery. Ideal candidates will have strong proficiency in C++ or Python, experience in FPGA development and DSP techniques, and a passion for the aerospace domain. The position operates in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

Name Your Satellite Program (NYSP)

Generous Time Off Policy

Education Assistance Program

Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)

Fitness Reimbursement

Healthy snacks & beverages in every office

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in relevant fields.
• Experience with GNSS or aerospace domains preferred.
• Strong technical problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain software for GNSS-based payloads.
• Collaborate to ensure high-quality data delivery.
• Participate in code reviews and documentation.

Skills

C++ or Python proficiency

FPGA development (VHDL or HLS)

DSP techniques and theory

GNSS signal processing or scientific applications

Cloud-based systems (e.g., AWS)

Lifelong learning and adaptability

Strong work ethics

Independently navigating technical challenges

Job description

Overview

Spacecraft Software Engineer (GNSS) to join our team working at the intersection of satellite payloads, scientific computing, and data delivery systems. You will develop and maintain both the flight and ground software that powers satellite-based GNSS missions, working 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

• 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.

Work Model and Compliance

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position requires 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.

Benefits

• Name Your Satellite Program (NYSP)
• Launch Attendance
• Generous Time Off Policy
• Education Assistance Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
• Family Leave
• Fitness Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Healthy snacks & beverages in every office

About Spire

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its data and algorithms provide advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking. The company also maintains a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage.

Spire is global and embraces diverse viewpoints, skills, and experiences. We are 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, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will complete a background check, which may include criminal history and employment verification. Applying from California? Please review the CCPA Applicant Privacy Policy. Applying from the EU? Please review Spire\'s Privacy Policy.