Flight Software Systems Engineer
US$185,000 – US$225,000 / yr base salary
Posted 25 Sep 2026
Advertised as “Senior/Staff Flight Software Systems Engineer”
BranchFactor Summary
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
- Expected experience
- 8+ yrs
- Management level
- Individual contributor
- Employment
- On-Site
- Contract
- Full-time
| Base salary | US$185,000 – US$225,000 / yr |
|---|
Field of studyComputer Engineering, Computer Science (or related)
Study levelBachelor's
Field of studyComputer Engineering, Computer Science (or related)
Study levelMaster's or higher
Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space—for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra’s ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.
About the Team
Mission Solutions – The Platforms
Mission Solutions builds on Umbra’s expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions. Whether it’s a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built on timelines that match the urgency of the mission.
If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that’s redefining what’s possible in space platforms, you belong here at Umbra.
About the Job
We are seeking a Senior/Staff Flight Software Engineer to support Umbra’s Mission Solutions business unit in developing requirements, designing software architecture, writing code, and overseeing system integration and testing. You will also provide expert guidance in software design, code development, peer reviews, documentation, and integration with flight hardware, including unit testing. This is a unique opportunity to design and implement new features and capabilities that enhance Umbra’s existing software baseline, tailored to meet specialized Mission Solutions program needs. The ideal candidate is a solution-driven problem solver, an exceptional communicator, and possesses a strong systems-thinking mindset to drive innovation in spacecraft software development.
This position is based on-site in either our Reston, VA office or Arlington, VA office.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with a cross-disciplinary engineering team to design, develop, and maintain reliable, fault-tolerant flight and payload software.
- Architect and implement software solutions to meet high-level system requirements while managing interfaces with multiple spacecraft subsystems and ground systems hardware.
- Create and maintain documentation for software operation and interfaces with other system components.
- Develop & test command and control software for spacecraft flight operations and payload electronics.