Software Engineer

About the role

This role is an exciting opportunity for an experienced software engineer to develop and enhance custom programming for an open-source software tool used in NASA mission planning and orbital mechanics tracking. You will contribute to a multi-program system that supports Guidance, Navigation and Control (GN&C) and orbit tracking for satellites.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain core software components in C++ and Python for an open-source orbital mechanics and mission planning tool used in NASA programs.
• Implement and enhance custom APIs to extend system capabilities and integrate with other tools and subsystems.
• Develop software primarily on a Windows platform, ensuring compatibility, reliability, and performance.
• Participate as a prime technical contributor on a small development team, collaborating closely with colleagues to define requirements, design solutions, and deliver features.
• Perform manual, batch, and functional testing of software features to validate functionality, performance, scalability, and maintainability.
• Troubleshoot and resolve software defects, performance issues, and integration problems in a systematic and timely manner.
• Apply knowledge of GN&C, satellite ground systems, orbital mechanics, or related subsystems to inform design decisions and improve system capabilities.
• Use configuration management (CM) tools and processes to manage source code, track changes, and support reliable releases.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of development, testing, and quality assurance practices within the team.
• Collaborate in an office environment, communicating technical concepts clearly and contributing to a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Explore opportunities to expand responsibilities and grow into other roles based on strong performance and initiative.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical or STEM discipline from an accredited institution.
• At least 5–10 years of relevant professional software development experience.
• Strong programming and development experience with C++.
• Strong programming and development experience with Python.
• Experience developing software on a Windows platform.
• Experience performing functional or batch testing and manual testing of software.
• Experience developing core code for complex software systems.
• Able to contribute as a key technical member of a small development team.