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Spire

Senior Software Engineer (SatOS Team)

Hybrid

Glasgow, United kingdom

Senior

Full Time

02-02-2026

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Skills

Communication Adaptability Python Rust Bash GitHub CI/CD Version Control Data collection Architecture Linux Ubuntu git Software Development Project Management Analytics CI/CD Pipelines gRPC

Job Specifications

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to join our Sat OS team (which develops the high-level operating system 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-based payload execution and data collection capabilities. Ideal candidates will embrace the commercialisation 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 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
Work with our customers to translate their requirements into effective software solutions

Key Skills: 

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 
Experience with inter-process communication protocols (such as gRPC) 
Ability to communicate effectively with embedded software engineers  
Excellent documentation skills
Good customer relations 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
Proficiency in Python and Rust
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:  

Python, Rust, Bash 
Ubuntu (development environment) 
gRPC (inter-process communications)

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.

Global Perks

Name Your Satellite Program (NYSP)
Launch Attendance
Generous Time Off Policy
Education Assistance Program
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
Family Leave
Fitness Reimbursement
Employee Referral Program
Healthy snacks & beverages in every office

 

About Spire

We improve life on Earth with data from space.

Spire Global is a space-to-cloud analytics company that owns and operates the largest multi-purpose constellation of satellites. Its proprietary data and algorithms provide the most advanced maritime, aviation, and weather tracking in the world. In addition to its constellation, Spire’s data infrastructure includes a global ground station network and 24/7 operations that provide real-time global coverage of every point on Earth.

Spire is Global and our success draws upon the diverse viewpoints, skills and experiences of our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.

To help maintain a safe and secure workplace for Spire employees, all candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check. This may include criminal history and employment verification.

Please take a moment to review Spire's Global Data Privacy Notice for Employees, Contractors, Candidates and Visitors, as well as Spire's Privacy Policy.

Kindly be advised that communication regarding your application may come from @spire.com, @recruiting.spire.com, or from Candidate.fyi (our scheduling tool).

About the Company

Spire (NYSE: SPIR) is a global provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, offering unique datasets and powerful insights about Earth so that organizations can make decisions with confidence in a rapidly changing world. Spire builds, owns, and operates a fully deployed satellite constellation that observes the Earth in real time using radio frequency technology. The data acquired by Spire’s satellites provides global weather intelligence, ship and plane movements, and spoofing and jamming detection to better ... Know more