Software Engineer

Job description

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 We are an AI-forward engineering organization. Are you already to use AI tools to write code, architect systems, and solve complex problems in your daily work? Our engineers: Use AI as a force multiplier in their 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) What Sets You Apart You ship working code, not perfect plans You learn quickly and adapt to new technologies You ask questions and seek to understand how systems work end-to-end You collaborate effectively across teams with different perspectives You take ownership of your work and follow through to completion You balance moving fast with attention to detail in high-stakes environments Desired Multipliers Experience in aerospace, robotics, or hardware-software systems Exposure to TypeScript, Go, or C/C++ Open-source contributions or relevant side projects The pay range for this role is: $140,000 - $180,000 per year The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply. You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills. San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. 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. Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.