Ground Software Engineer (Mid)

Apex - Satellite Platforms; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision

15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually

8 weeks paid parental leave

Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks

Equity in Apex

Job summary

Apex - Satellite Platforms is seeking a skilled software engineer in Los Angeles to design and implement ground software for satellite communication. The role demands expertise in programming languages like Go, TypeScript, Python, and Rust, along with a Bachelor’s degree in CS or EE. Candidates must have 3+ years of experience and U.S. Person status for export-controlled data access. The position offers competitive salary, equity options, and comprehensive benefits in a vibrant workplace environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of total ground software experience.
• U.S. Person status required for accessing export-controlled data.
• Familiarity with encryption and secure communication systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement ground software for satellite operations.
• Support spacecraft commissioning during launches and ensure system functionality.
• Integrate third-party tools and automate satellite operations.

Skills

Ground software experience

Programming in Go, TypeScript, Python, Rust

Microservices frameworks

Cloud-based solutions (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)

Knowledge of Linux OS

Real-time systems testing

Network protocols (TCP/IP, UDP)

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.

Responsibilities

About the Role

• 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 Go, TypeScript, Python, 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.

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 socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and 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 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.

Compensation Range: $150K – $185K