Software Designer - Backend

Kepler Communications; United States; On-site; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a talented Software Designer to join their mission of enhancing satellite connectivity. In this role, you will design and maintain high-performance backend services that support satellite operations and mission control software. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system performance and security while mentoring junior developers. This exciting opportunity allows you to contribute to the future of space technology and be part of a diverse and inclusive team dedicated to making a difference in the space economy. If you are passionate about software development and eager to tackle challenges in a dynamic environment, this position is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of Python experience and strong software design skills required.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and containerized software is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop reliable software for satellite network infrastructure.
• Collaborate with teams to deliver mission-critical ground systems.

Skills

Python

Software Design

System Architecture

Algorithms

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Post-graduate Degree

Tools

GitLab CI

GitHub Actions

Jenkins

Docker

Kubernetes

Ansible

Terraform

SQL

NoSQL

Apache Pulsar

Job description

Kepler is on an audacious mission to deliver Internet connectivity to space, creating the infrastructure to support the rapidly increasing data needs of the space economy. With 23 satellites launched to date and our optical constellation on the horizon, our ambition is to improve access to space-generated data, whether in LEO, MEO, GEO, or beyond! Kepler is hard at work innovating and continuing to grow and expand our most important asset – the Team!

We’re on the hunt for a top-tier Software Designer who will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining high-performance backend services and infrastructure. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to build scalable applications that support the development, testing, and operation of our satellites and mission control software.

Responsibilities:

1. Design and develop reliable, high-quality software related to operating Kepler’s satellite network infrastructure and mission control software automation.
2. Ensuring system performance, security, and high availability through best practices.
3. Collaborate with satellite operators, product managers, and customers to deliver mission-critical ground systems.
4. Build and optimize CI/CD pipelines to streamline deployment and improve development workflows.
5. Monitor system health, troubleshoot issues, and proactively implement improvements.
6. Help develop roadmaps and long-term technical plans for Kepler’s ground segment.
7. Mentor junior developers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence.

Requirements:

1. Minimum 6+ years of Python experience.
2. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent.
3. Strong software design and development skills, including algorithms, system architecture, testing, and debugging.
4. Expertise in building and maintaining CI/CD pipelines using tools like GitLab CI, GitHub Actions, or Jenkins.
5. Experience with containerized software (Docker, Kubernetes, K8s) and infrastructure-as-code (Ansible, Terraform, etc.).
6. Ability to operate in a Linux-based environment.
7. Ability to effectively use git.
8. Excellent communication skills.

Bonus Points:

1. Post-graduate degree in a relevant field.
2. Experience with architecting and deploying on cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, etc.).
3. Proficiency in SQL and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, DynamoDB, etc.).
4. Familiarity with Python development tools such as uv, pytest/unittest, setuptools, SWIG, and C-extensions.
5. Strong knowledge of computer networking and modern networking protocols, especially delay-tolerant networking.
6. Experience with event-driven architectures (Apache Pulsar, AWS SNS/SQS, Kafka, RabbitMQ).
7. Familiarity with observability tools (Prometheus, Grafana, TimescaleDB, ELK stack).
8. Knowledge of security best practices in software development.

Kepler Communications is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from: Women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, people who identify as LGBTQ+ and others who may contribute to diversification in our workplace.

As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, Kepler will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact our People & Culture team, through our Career Page to make your accommodation needs known and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.