Senior Spacecraft Software Engineer

Spire; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 130,500 - 171,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Name Your Satellite Program

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

Job summary

A leading space analytics company in Colorado is seeking a Spacecraft Software Engineer (GNSS) to develop mission-critical software for satellite payloads. Candidates should have expertise in C++ or Python, FPGA development, and a strong background in DSP techniques. The role involves building data automation systems and ensuring high-quality data delivery. This position offers a hybrid work model and comprehensive benefits, including generous time off and education assistance.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience with software development for satellite payloads.
• Experience with scientific and command & control software.
• Background in RF or GNSS applications is essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain software for GNSS-based satellite payloads.
• Build ground-based automation systems for data management.
• Collaborate with flight operations to ensure data quality.

Skills

C++ or Python proficiency

FPGA development

DSP techniques and theory

GNSS signal processing familiarity

Cloud-based systems experience

Curiosity and adaptability

Strong work ethics

Technical problem solving

Job description

We are looking for a Spacecraft Software Engineer (GNSS) to join our team working at the intersection of satellite payloads, scientific computing, and data delivery systems. In this role, you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining both the flight and ground software that powers our satellite-based GNSS missions. You'll work 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 as a Senior Software Engineer:

• 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.

Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work 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 — this is not something candidates need to have before applying.

Salary Range

$130,500 — $171,000 USD

Global Perks

• 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

We improve life on Earth with data from space. Spire Global is a space‑to‑cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi‑purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire's data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real‑time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be 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 for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

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