Staff Software Engineer (FileTransfer Team)

We are seeking an experienced Staff Software Engineer to join our File Transfer team which develops cross mission operational services to ensure file queuing and delivery between our satellites and ground stations.

The successful candidate will play a crucial role in developing software for our satellite systems, contributing to the expansion and enhancement of our space-based payload execution and data collection 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!    

Responsibilities & Tasks:   

• Develop services in Python/Rust that interface with hardware integration layers using modern protocols  
• Implement communication interfaces between higher-level processes, including ground to space commanding  
• Migrate legacy Python systems to a new Rust-based, distributed architecture  
• Contribute to the design and implementation of fault-tolerant systems to meet the demands of new customer missions  
• Collaborate closely with the Platform Engineering team to ensure optimal software-hardware integration  
• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for APIs and system architectures  
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of our development processes and tools  
• Perform ground-based testing and in-orbit verification of new software services  
• Implement observability solutions for satellite-side services  
• Act as our Cloud Evangelist to bolster how we do things in AWS 

Key Skills:   

• 8+ years' experience in professional software development  
• Proficiency in Python, Rust or equivalent high-level language  
• Knowledge of Linux-based development  
• Has worked extensively in DevOps or as a DevOps champion in their team 
• Experience with inter-process communication protocols (such as gRPC)  
• Ability to communicate effectively with embedded software engineers   
• Excellent documentation skills  

Preferred Skills:    

• Familiarity with safety-critical software systems in any industry   
• Knowledge of version control systems, particularly Git and GitHub  
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines   
• Experience with project management tools  
• Proficiency in scripting languages like Bash  
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles systems   
• Knowledge of telemetry and command systems  
• Experience in implementing Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) systems for high-level or embedded applications  

Tools and Technologies:    

• Rust, Python, Bash  
• Ubuntu (development environment)  
• gRPC (inter-process communications)  
• Version control using Git   
• Comfortable with some of: Terraform, Ansible, Docker, ECS, ECR in AWS 

We value adaptability and a willingness to learn new tools and technologies as needed for the role.  

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.