Sr. Software Engineer (Onsite)

Columbus Technologies and Services; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 84,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbus Technologies and Services is seeking a Software Engineer to build and sustain software for DSN embedded platforms and operational ground systems. The role spans embedded Linux and server-side work, supporting systems the DSN relies on daily.

You will contribute to the Control Systems and Electronics Group and collaborate across teams throughout the lifecycle. The position requires deep C/C++, Python, Java, and scripting skills, with a focus on high-reliability systems and security best

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical discipline; typically 5 years for Level III / 9 years for Level IV, or Master’s with 3+ years.
• Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems with modern build systems.
• Experience in Java and database technologies.
• Strong Python and Bash scripting for tooling and admin tasks.
• Experience with kernel configuration and cross-compilation for embedded architectures.
• Familiarity with Docker containerization for development and builds.
• Ability to implement cybersecurity requirements in software.
• Knowledge of Git and software development workflows.
• Experience on high-reliability or mission-critical systems.

Responsibilities

• Develops and maintains DELOS embedded OS using Buildroot for DSN embedded systems.
• Designs, implements, and troubleshoots embedded software on DELOS-based systems.
• Delivers DELOS software packages and tools within Buildroot ecosystem; maintains CI/CD compatible, containerized builds.
• Implements cybersecurity requirements in embedded software.
• Contributes to technical documentation and participates in code and design reviews.
• Develops and maintains WebCMD service as part of the software suite.
• Supports NASA flight project operations and issue resolution.
• Monitors production service availability and manages failover/recovery.
• Collaborates with DSN operations and flight teams to gather requirements and implement updates.

Skills

C/C++ for embedded systems

Java and databases

Python & Bash scripting

Kernel config & cross-compilation

Docker containerization

Cybersecurity in software

Git version control & workflows

Communication & teamwork

Experience on high-reliability systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/SE/CE

Master's degree in related field

PhD in related field

Tools

Buildroot

Yocto

Git

Jenkins

Artifactory

Job description

OVERVIEW

Must be a US Citizen or Green Card holder

Duration - 14 month contract position with potential to be extended or converted

W2 with full benefits, 9/80 Work Schedule

Customer and contract specific training will be required and provided.

Location - Pasadena, CA (onsite)

Offer contingent on ability to successfully pass a background check and drug screen

The US base pay range for this full-time position is $61-105/hr+ benefits.Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Ground Communications and Architecture Section (361) provides engineering development, implementation, and maintenance of high-reliability state-of-the-art technologies for the telecommunications systems of the Deep Space Network (DSN) in support of NASA's space and science missions. Our engineers design and develop all aspects of the ground communications systems including the Radio Frequency (RF) microwave optics and feeds, cryogenic low noise amplifiers, high power RF transmitters, digital receivers, mechanical/structural elements of large antennas and antenna construction, and precision antenna pointing utilizing advanced servo controllers.

We are looking for a Software Engineer to build and sustain software for DSN embedded platforms and operational ground systems. The role spans embedded Linux and server-side work, supporting systems the DSN relies on every day. You will be a member of the Control Systems and Electronics Group (361F) and will work closely with teammates across the organization to provide support through all phases of the DSN project lifecycle, from inception through the end of maturity.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and maintains the DELOS embedded operating system using the Buildroot framework for DSN embedded systems.
• Designs, implements, and troubleshoots embedded software applications that run on DELOS-based systems in lab and operational environments.
• Develops, integrates, and delivers DELOS software packages and tools within the Buildroot ecosystem while adhering to DSN configuration-management practices and maintaining CI/CD compatible, containerized build processes.
• Implements cybersecurity requirements and recommendations in embedded software systems.
• Contributes to technical documentation and participates in code reviews and design reviews to ensure high-quality software deliverables.
• Develops and maintains the WebCMD service as part of the Telemetry, Tracking, and Command software suite.
• Supports NASA flight project operations to answer questions, provide investigative insight, and resolve issues.
• Monitors and maintains production service availability, including failover and recovery.
• Works with DSN operations and flight project teams to gather requirements and deliver updates.

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related technical discipline with typically a minimum of 5 years of related experience for Level III or 9 years for Level IV; or Master's degree in similar discipline with a minimum 3 years of related experience for Level III or 7 years for Level IV; or a PhD in a similar discipline with a minimum of 3 years of related experience for Level III or 5 years for Level IV.
• High proficiency in C/C++ programming for embedded systems using modern build systems.
• High proficiency in Java and database experience.
• Deep knowledge of Python and Bash scripting for tooling, system administration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with kernel configuration and cross-compilation toolchains for embedded architectures.
• Familiarity with Docker containerization for development and build environments.
• Familiarity implementing cybersecurity requirements in software systems.
• Familiarity with Git version control and software development workflows.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a small, collaborative team.
• Experience working on high-reliability or mission-critical systems.
• Ability to travel to domestic and foreign Deep Space Network sites for 1 to 2 weeks per year.

DESIRED SKILLS

• Prior experience with Buildroot or Yocto embedded build frameworks.
• Experience configuring Linux services (BusyBox init, systemd) and Linux system administration.
• Experience with U-Boot bootloader, dual-boot systems, and overlay filesystems.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, CANopen, or serial communications.
• Experience administering database, web server, and authentication services, such as MySQL, Apache httpd, Tomcat, or LDAP/SSO.
• Experience developing server-side applications in Java or another backend language.
• Familiarity with Jenkins, Artifactory, or other CI/CD and artifact repository management tools.
• Knowledge of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) management and security vulnerability assessment for embedded systems.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. As a federal contractor, Columbus participates in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States.