Senior Backend Software Engineer

Spire•Boulder, CO

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Due to team growth, we are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to join our Sat OS team, which develops the high-level operating system and file transfer layer for the spacecraft. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in developing software for our satellite systems, contributing to the expansion and enhancement of our space and ground-based data transfer capabilities. Ideal candidates will embrace the commercialization of nanosatellite systems and adapt to low-cost, fast-paced systems design, development, and implementation methodologies that set Spire apart from our competition. In this fast-paced environment, the design to launch cycle is measured in weeks and months, not years! This role is primarily backend and platform focused. We are generally looking for engineers with stronger backend and systems experience rather than heavily frontend-focused backgrounds. 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 for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying.

Requirements

5+ years’ experience in professional software development
Proven experience in production-grade software development using at least one compiled language
Proficiency in Python or equivalent high-level language
Knowledge of Linux-based development
Excellent documentation, collaboration, and communication skills
Systems-level thinking (distributed, scalable, highly available) with an appetite for creating and adapting applications
Hands-on experience with Cloud Computing Platforms (AWS), IaC and modern CI/CD pipelines
Knowledge of version control systems

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in Python and Rust
Experience working under regulatory frameworks such as NIST and FAR
Familiarity with cybersecurity principles and platforms such as Wiz
Experience with operating a live, highly available critical system at scale
Experience writing applications between L3 and L7 networking layers and familiarity with L2/L3 protocols
Experience with modern AI development tooling
Proficiency in scripting languages like Bash

Responsibilities

Develop and enhance satellite-side applications with a focus on file transfer to and from the satellite and its payloads
Contribute to the design and implementation of the next generation of Spire’s File Transfer architecture (Rust)
Ensure that Spire’s file transfer services meet internal and mission-driven security standards
Enhance observability and fault-tolerance of Spire’s file transfer services
Take responsibility for the performance of critical file transfer services that contribute to the movement of data to and from Spire’s entire fleet of nanosatellites
Contribute to the design and implementation of highly available, fault-tolerant systems to meet the demands of new customer missions
Perform ground-based testing and in-orbit verification of new software services
Coordinate closely with Spire’s communications team, systems engineering, product owners, and internal customers to ensure alignment and optimal integration with interfacing hardware and software services
Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for APIs and system architectures
Implement observability solutions for space and ground-based services to provide a clear and actionable view of service performance