Senior Software Engineer, Ground Systems

BLUE ORIGIN

Senior software engineer developing DTN, APIs, and ground-system interfaces for Blue Origin’s Mars Telecommunications Network. Supporting reliable deep-space communications between Mars users and Earth.

Posted 9/10/2026full-timeColorado, Virginia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $181,626 - $276,540 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in software development for space mission ground systems, with a strong focus on user-services-layer software, external APIs, and compliance with CCSDS and DTN standards. Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor peers in software engineering best practices.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Software Development ExperiencePython ProgrammingAPI DevelopmentAWS or Azure ExperienceCCSDS and DTN Standards Familiarity

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Software DevelopmentPythonJavaC++API DevelopmentAutomated TestingIntegration TestingAgile MethodologiesPerformance TuningSpace Mission Ground Systems

Soft Skills

Problem-SolvingWritten CommunicationVerbal CommunicationRelationship BuildingInclusivity

Tools & Technologies

AWSAzureDevSecOpsDOORS Next Generation

Industry Keywords

DTNBundle ProtocolMars Relay Operations ServiceSpacecraft OperationsNASA Civil Space Programs

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSAzureC++JavaPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design, develop, and maintain user-services-layer software, including DTN implementation, customer data routing, and external APIs for payload data delivery
Build and evolve ground-system software interfaces connecting Mars relay users, the relay network, and Earth-based services
Collaborate with systems engineers and mission partners to translate requirements into software designs and implementations
Develop automated tests, perform integration testing, and tune performance for reliable operation across deep-space light-time delays
Implement ground-system interfaces conforming to CCSDS and DTN Bundle Protocol standards
Engage NASA, mission partners, and Mars user teams on software interface design and integration
Document software architecture, interfaces, and operational procedures
Support deployment and handoff to operations teams
Mentor peers on software engineering best practices, scalability, reliability, and maintainability

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
8+ years of software development experience with production code in Python, Java, C++, or similar languages
Experience developing and maintaining external-facing APIs for data delivery
Experience with AWS or Azure and DevSecOps practices
Familiarity with Agile development methodologies
Experience with space mission ground systems, spacecraft operations, or a related domain
Familiarity with CCSDS, DTN, and Bundle Protocol
Strong problem-solving skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to earn trust, maintain positive professional relationships, and contribute to an inclusive culture
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident/current Green Card holder, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum
Passion for Blue Origin's mission and vision
Blue’s Standard Background Check required
Preferred: Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
Preferred: Experience with NASA civil space programs or U.S. Government agency missions
Preferred: Hands-on DTN and delay/disruption-tolerant architecture implementation
Preferred: Experience with Mars Relay Operations Service (MaROS) or comparable relay planning systems
Preferred: Experience with spacecraft subsystem or onboard flight software
Preferred: Experience with DOORS Next Generation (DNG)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Basic and supplemental life insurance
Paid parental leave
Short- and long-term disability
401(k) with company match of up to 5%
Education Support Program
Stock Options for all regular employees working at least 20 hours/week
Up to four weeks of paid time off per year based on weekly scheduled hours
Up to 14 company-paid holidays
Potential benefits and bonuses based on role type, job level, individual contributions, and company results