Software Engineer

The Team

The software team has always operated as a small, versatile team that punches above its weight. As we grow, we want to maintain those cross-functional technical skillsets and embrace diversity in backgrounds because sometimes writing the best rocket company software in the world is like programming a synthesizer, and other times it is like sanding the rust off of an old cabinet.

The Opportunity

As a Software Engineer at Astra, you'll build systems that support rocket testing, manufacturing, and launch operations. You'll work closely with hardware, operations, and senior engineers to develop tools for automation, data collection, and real-time analysis.

This is a high-impact role with broad technical scope and direct influence on critical engineering workflows.

AI-Forward Engineering Culture

• Use AI as a force multiplier in your daily work
• Design systems assuming AI-assisted development and operations
• Value engineers who experiment, adapt quickly, and adopt better tools

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Build: Develop and maintain Python-based systems for automating rocket testing, manufacturing, and launch operations.
• Deliver: Ship tools for real-time telemetry data collection and analysis to support rapid decision-making.
• Collaborate: Work with teams across engineering, manufacturing, and launch to identify software needs and implement impactful solutions.
• Contribute: Build internal tools, APIs (REST/gRPC), and cloud-native infrastructure that enable fast iteration and high reliability.
• Learn: Understand end-to-end workflows from design through launch, growing your expertise in aerospace software systems.
• Troubleshoot: Debug and improve systems that must operate under high complexity and extreme conditions.

Why We Value You

• 5+ years production-level Python development experience with a track record of shipping impactful software
• Solid understanding of system design, data pipelines, and APIs
• Experience with cloud-native services (e.g., AWS, Kubernetes, Docker) and telemetry or time-series systems
• Familiarity with REST/gRPC APIs and common data serialization formats (JSON, YAML, Protobuf)
• Proven ability to deliver software in high-stakes or cross-functional environments
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with a proactive mindset
• Attention to detail and sense of urgency—you understand we work with high voltage, explosives, and cryogenic materials
• Passion for learning and tackling challenging technical problems
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)

Desired Multipliers

• Experience in aerospace, robotics, or hardware-software systems
• Exposure to TypeScript, Go, or C/C++
• Open-source contributions or relevant side projects

Pay Range

The pay range for this role is: $140,000 - $180,000 per year

ITAR Requirements

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

Platform & Infrastructure

Alameda, CA