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Space Technology, Aerospace, Satellite Communications

Mission Operations Ground Software Engineering Lead

Hawthorne, CAOnsiteFull Time$140,000–$165,000 /yrPosted 10 days ago

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Required skills

  • software systems
  • spacecraft testing
  • mission operations
  • real-time ground communications
  • distributed systems
  • infrastructure
  • real-time data processing
  • software platforms
  • operational tooling
  • spacecraft integration

Nice to have

  • spacecraft ground systems
  • mission control software
  • telemetry/command frameworks
  • message bus
  • streaming technologies
  • CCSDS standards

Role summary

Quantum Space is seeking a Spacecraft Ground Software Engineer III to lead the development, integration, and operational support of software systems for spacecraft testing, mission operations, and ground communications. This role involves building software platforms and tools for spacecraft integration, command/telemetry workflows, and mission readiness. The engineer will collaborate with various teams to create scalable, reliable ground software solutions supporting integration and on-orbit operations. Key responsibilities include designing and developing ground software components, owning ground segment architecture, creating automation for reliability and observability, and supporting anomaly investigations. A Bachelor's degree in a technical field and 5+ years of software engineering experience are required, with strong proficiency in languages like Python, Go, C++, or Java, and experience with distributed systems, APIs, or microservices.

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a highly skilled Mission Operations Ground Software Engineering Lead to lead the development, integration, and operational support of software systems that enable spacecraft testing, mission operations, and real-time ground communications.

This role is ideal for an experienced software engineer who thrives at the intersection of distributed systems, mission operations, infrastructure, and real-time data processing. You will play a key role in building the software platforms and operational tooling that support spacecraft integration, command and telemetry workflows, and mission readiness throughout the vehicle lifecycle.

You will work closely with flight software, AI&T, mission operations, avionics, and systems engineering teams to develop scalable and reliable ground software solutions that support both integration and on-orbit operations.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

  • Lead design, development, and deployment of ground software components including payload data pipelines, telemetry processing, event handling, dashboards, tool development, and automated monitoring.
  • Own major portions of the ground segment architecture and guide long‑term technical direction.
  • Develop tools and automation to improve reliability, operator efficiency, and system observability across satellite missions.
  • Work with mission operators, mission design and analysis, and systems engineering to understand operational workflows and translate them into software solutions.
  • Lead integration of new spacecraft, subsystems, and communication interfaces into the ground system.
  • Implement scalable microservices, APIs, and data pipelines to support real-time and offline mission operations.
  • Ensure system resiliency, security, and performance through testing, code review, CI/CD, and operational best practices.
  • Support anomaly investigations by building diagnostic tools, analyzing telemetry flows, and identifying root causes within the ground architecture.
  • Mentor junior and mid‑level engineers; contribute to engineering standards and best practices.

    • What It Takes

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, software engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 5+ years of software engineering experience, including production experience developing complex systems.
  • Strong proficiency in at least one major programming language (Python, Go, C++, or Java).
  • Experience developing distributed systems, APIs, or microservices architectures.
  • Familiarity with cloud platforms, containerization (Docker), and orchestration frameworks (Kubernetes).
  • Understanding of satellite operations concepts, telemetry/command systems, or communication protocols.
  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and code quality practices.

    • Nice-to-Have Experience

  • Prior experience developing spacecraft ground systems, mission control software, or telemetry/command frameworks.
  • Experience with message bus or streaming technologies (Kafka, MQTT, Redis Streams).
  • Knowledge of CCSDS standards (telemetry, command, SM&C, file delivery).
  • Experience building operational UIs, dashboards, or visualization tools.
  • Contributions to system architecture decisions, scaling strategies, and infrastructure automation.
  • Experience supporting real‑time or mission‑critical operational environments.
  • Familiarity with RF systems, link-layer protocols, or satellite network configurations.

    • What You’ll Get

  • Ownership – Lead the development of mission-critical ground software that supports spacecraft integration, testing, command and telemetry, and on-orbit operations from concept through deployment.
  • Innovation – Build scalable software platforms, distributed systems, and operational tools that power the next generation of spacecraft missions and enable reliable space operations.
  • Impact – Develop the software infrastructure that connects engineering, integration, and mission operations teams, directly contributing to the success of every spacecraft mission.
  • Growth – Expand your expertise in ground systems, mission operations, cloud infrastructure, and distributed software while influencing technical architecture, engineering standards, and the future of Quantum Space’s software ecosystem.
  • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

    • Location: Hawthorne, CA

    Base Salary: $140,000-165,000

    The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.

    Additional Requirements

    To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

    Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

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