Software Systems Engineer III

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 ForWe are seeking an experienced and technically driven Software Systems Engineer III to lead the development of spacecraft software architectures, mission operations capabilities, and system-level engineering solutions for next-generation Ranger spacecraft. In this role, you will bridge software engineering and systems engineering disciplines, driving technical solutions from early concept development through spacecraft integration, mission execution, and on-orbit operations.You will serve as a senior technical contributor responsible for software architecture, systems engineering, interface definition, verification, and deployment of advanced spacecraft software and mission systems. Working closely with flight software, ground software, autonomy, mission operations, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), communications, and spacecraft subsystem teams, you will help develop robust software architectures that enable reliable, autonomous, and mission-ready spacecraft operations. This position is ideal for an engineer who combines deep software expertise with strong systems engineering skills and enjoys leading multidisciplinary technical efforts across the full spacecraft lifecycle.You'll Make an ImpactLead the architecture and design of spacecraft software and system-level solutions supporting Ranger spacecraft programsDevelop and manage system requirements, interface definitions, technical baselines, verification plans, and traceability throughout the development lifecycleDefine and manage interfaces between Flight Software (FSW), Ground Software (GSW), mission operations systems, and spacecraft hardwareCollaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure successful software integration, system validation, and mission executionPartner with experts across flight software, autonomy, mission operations, GNC, communications, avionics, and spacecraft systems to deliver integrated mission capabilitiesSupport the development, integration, testing, deployment, and operational readiness of spacecraft software systemsConduct system architecture trade studies, technical assessments, and design analyses supporting program objectivesLead technical reviews, risk assessments, architecture evaluations, and engineering decision processesSupport mission planning, concept of operations (ConOps) development, spacecraft operational readiness, and mission execution planningMentor engineers while promoting systems engineering best practices, software quality, and technical excellenceSupport customer interactions, executive briefings, design reviews, and technical presentationsDrive resolution of complex technical issues across software and spacecraft systems throughout the product lifecycleContribute directly to software development, integration, and engineering activities as requiredSupport continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen software architecture, systems engineering processes, and mission execution capabilitiesWhat It TakesBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline8+ years of relevant engineering experience, including software development for aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability systemsDemonstrated experience developing and managing complex spacecraft or aerospace systemsExperience developing Flight Software (FSW) and supporting spacecraft software architecturesExperience designing large-scale software systems and distributed software architecturesExperience managing interfaces between Flight Software (FSW), Ground Software (GSW), mission operations systems, and spacecraft hardwareStrong understanding of systems engineering principles including requirements development, interface management, verification, validation, and configuration managementExperience leading multidisciplinary technical efforts across software and hardware engineering organizationsExperience supporting spacecraft development, integration, testing, launch preparation, and/or mission operationsStrong analytical, problem-solving, technical communication, and presentation skillsDemonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across diverse technical disciplinesComfortable operating within a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environmentNice-to-Have ExperienceExperience supporting spacecraft operations, mission operations systems, autonomy, navigation, or Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC)Experience developing autonomous spacecraft capabilities, autonomous mission execution concepts, or intelligent mission planning systemsExperience with Terrain Relative Navigation (TRN), autonomous navigation systems, orbital guidance, or propulsive maneuver planningExperience working within fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space startup environmentsAdvanced systems engineering experience including requirements management, interface control, and verification planningExperience applying AI-enabled software engineering tools, model-based engineering techniques, or automated development workflowsExperience leading cross-functional engineering teams through rapid product development cyclesFamiliarity with spacecraft subsystems, spacecraft architectures, and vehicle-level systems integrationWhat You'll GetOwnership – Lead the architecture, integration, and deployment of mission-critical spacecraft software and system-level capabilitiesInnovation – Help develop advanced autonomous spacecraft technologies, mission operations systems, and next-generation space infrastructureImpact – Deliver software and mission systems that enable national security, civil, and commercial space missionsGrowth – Work alongside experts in software, autonomy, mission operations, spacecraft systems, and flight programs while helping shape the future of Quantum Space engineeringCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA/FSA options, 401(k) matching, and equity participationLocation: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA or Denver, COBase Salary: $160,000–$200,000The 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 RequirementsTo 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.