Ground Software Engineer, Real-Time Space Data

Northwood Space; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwood Space in Torrance, CA is hiring a Ground Software Engineer to develop software that ingests, processes, and routes mission data across our satellite ground network.

You will implement CCSDS protocols, build high-performance data pipelines, and collaborate with DSP/FPGA teams to ensure reliable, production-ready software across systems.

This role offers ownership from development to deployment and requires strong systems programming in Rust/C++/Go.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS, EE, or related field with 2–5+ years of experience.
• Proficiency in Rust, C++, or Go for systems software.
• Experience with networking, real-time data processing, or distributed systems.
• Strong understanding of CCSDS standards and protocols.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain software for ingesting, processing, and routing telemetry data.
• Implement and validate CCSDS protocols and space packet handling.
• Develop high-performance data pipelines linking SDRs, ground stations, and customers.
• Create tooling for parsing, buffering, recording, and monitoring data.
• Collaborate with DSP/FPGA teams to define software interfaces.
• Test workflows with simulated or live satellite data.
• Own software from development through deployment and support.

Skills

Rust

C++

Go

Real-time processing

Distributed systems

CCSDS standards

Telecommunications

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

Northwood Space in Torrance, CA is hiring a Ground Software Engineer to develop software that ingests, processes, and routes mission data across our satellite ground network.

You will implement CCSDS protocols, build high-performance data pipelines, and collaborate with DSP/FPGA teams to ensure reliable, production-ready software across systems.

This role offers ownership from development to deployment and requires strong systems programming in Rust/C++/Go.