Senior Backend Software Engineer

The Role:

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!

What You’ll Do as a Sat OS Software Engineer:

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

Basic Skills/

Qualifications:

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

Preferred Skills/

Qualifications:

Proficiency in Python and Rust Experience working under regulatory frameworks such as NIST and FARFamiliarity 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 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 required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licenses—this is not something candidates need to have before applying. #LI-MK1

The anticipated base salary range for this position is listed below. Final base salary for this role will be based on the location, skills, experience and qualifications. In addition to base compensation, this role is eligible…