Principal Software Engineer

RKF Engineering Solutions, LLC (DBA Auria); Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 190,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match up to 4%

Tuition assistance up to $12k/year

Health insurance

Job summary

Auria is actively seeking a Principal Software Engineer in Carlsbad, CA, to design, develop, and integrate key software components for the Space Data Network-Backbone (SDN-B) Mission Operations Center (MOC). This is a contingent position.

The role will design and implement services that command and configure external network and satellite services, build mTLS-enabled gRPC clients, and transform APIs into Go/Python microservices.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of software engineering experience.
• Proficient in Go and Python, with gRPC/Protobuf and REST/API integration.
• Experience with Kubernetes, Docker, distributed systems networking, and CI/CD.
• Active TS security clearance required.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement the services that allow the MOC to command and configure external network and satellite services.
• Build mTLS-secured gRPC clients to Satellite Operations, implement S-band tasking workflows, coordinate CDS interface logic, and support broadband provisioning interfaces.
• Transform external APIs and ICDs into deployable Go/Python microservices
• Resolve integration problems across SDN components.
• Responsible for a meaningful portion of the architecture/interface documentation-SRS', interface designs, and microservice architecture

Skills

Go

Python

gRPC/Protobuf

REST/API

mTLS/PKI

CI/CD

Distributed systems networking

Tools

Kubernetes

Docker

Job description

Auria is actively seeking a Principal Software Engineer in Carlsbad, CA, to design, develop, and integrate key software components for the Space Data Network-Backbone (SDN-B) Mission Operations Center (MOC). This is a contingent position.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO:

• Design and implement the services that allow the MOC to command and configure external network and satellite services.
• Build mTLS-secured gRPC clients to Satellite Operations, implement S-band tasking workflows, coordinate CDS interface logic, and support broadband provisioning interfaces.
• Transform external APIs and ICDs into deployable Go/Python microservices
• Resolve integration problems across SDN components.
• Responsible for a meaningful portion of the architecture/interface documentation-SRS', interface designs, and microservice architecture

WHAT THE TEAM REQUIRES:

• 10+ years software engineering
• Strong experience with Go; Python; gRPC/Protobuf; REST/API integration; and mTLS/PKI
• Experience with Kubernetes/Docker; distributed systems networking fundamentals; and CI/CD
• Active TS required.

WHAT THE TEAM PREFERS:

• Experience in satellite C2 operations, SDN, telecom or DoD C2 integration in preferred.

PAY TRANSPARENCY:

The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications - skills, education & experience - and the position level. $190,000-$225,000

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

December 15, 2026

THE AURIA TEAM:

Auria is a provider of solutions and software in support of complex Space, National Security, and Cyber missions of federal, international, and commercial customers. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO our success is built on the excellence of diverse teams advancing innovative systems and operational software to strengthen our customers' missions. With a distinguished track record and a spirit of relentless pursuit, and R&D, we set the pace for progress and execute every mission with the utmost precision.

Why You'll Love Working at Auria

We believe our team does their best work when they are well-supported, financially secure, and have the freedom to balance life outside of the office.

Time for What Matters

• Generous & Growing PTO: Start with a substantial paid time off package that increases every year you're with us.
• True Flexibility: Contract permitting, use Flex Time to work in a way that fits your life, not just your 8-to-5.
• 11 Paid Days Off: Enjoy 6 fixed company holidays plus 5 Floating Holidays to use whenever you choose.

Invested in Your Future

• 401(k) Match-Yours to Keep Instantly: We match up to 4% of your contributions. Both your contributions and the company match are yours from day one with no vesting wait-period.
• Industry-Leading Education Support: Level up with up to $12,000 annually for tuition and certifications. We don't just hire talent; we grow it.

Health & Peace of Mind

• Premium Healthcare, Lower Costs: High-quality medical plans paired with a Company-Sponsored HSA to help you save for the future.
• Fully Covered Life Insurance: Breathe easy with life insurance up to $50K provided at zero cost to you.
• Holistic Support: Access our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial coaching, and more.

...and that's just the beginning!

Auria is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action-Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.