Ground Software Engineer (Mid)

Apex Technology, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision

15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually

Competitive 401(k) plan with matching

Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks

Paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement

Vibrant office community events

Job summary

A leading aerospace company in California is seeking a Ground Software Engineer to design and develop software for satellite communication and control. The ideal candidate should have over 3 years of experience, proficiency in Python, C++, and Rust, and familiarity with microservices and cloud solutions. This role offers a competitive salary of $150,000-$180,000 and excellent benefits, including equity, comprehensive healthcare, and generous PTO.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in ground software development.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and Rust.
• Experience with software integration for real-time systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement ground software for satellite communication.
• Support spacecraft commissioning during launch operations.
• Collaborate with teams to establish product requirements.

Skills

Programming in Python

Programming in C++

Programming in Rust

Microservices frameworks

Cloud-based solutions

Linux administration

Real-time systems testing

Network protocols knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

gRPC

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and implement ground software for satellite communication, control, and telemetry.

• Support commissioning of spacecraft during launch and early operations and ensure ground systems remain functional during critical operations.

• Own ground software solutions through the full lifecycle from initial design to deployment.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to baseline product requirements and technical roadmaps.

• Integrate third-party tools and custom software to automate satellite operations, tracking, and data processing.

• Monitor and improve system scalability, redundancy, and failover strategies for ground software and systems.

Requirements:

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

• 3+ years of total ground software experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in CS, EE or equivalent.

• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and Rust.

• Familiarity with microservices frameworks and tools and cloud-based solutions (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, gRPC).

• Knowledge of Linux operating systems and system administration.

• Experience with software integration, testing, and validation for real-time and distributed systems.

• Familiarity with network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP), secure communication systems, and encryption.

Salary Range: $150,000 - $180,000 a year

#LI-JC1

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, run club, and social gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office with EV chargers, with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.