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Ground Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AST SpaceMobile

Ground Software Engineer (Senior)

Lanham, MD · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain ...

AST SpaceMobile

Ground Software Engineer (Senior)

Lanham, MD · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

This may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business ...

Quantum Space

Software Systems Engineer III

Rockville, MD · On-site

$176K - $209K/yr

Working closely with flight software, ground software, autonomy, mission operations, guidance ... This position is ideal for an engineer who combines deep software expertise with strong systems ...

Lynk

Ground Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary Lynk is looking for an experienced Software Engineer to join the Mission Operations team, focused on the ground segment of our satellite constellation. You will design, build, and ship ...

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All JobsGround Software Engineer JobsGround Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Ground Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$71.9K

$167.1K

$232.7K

How much do ground software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for ground software engineer in Washington, DC is $167,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ground software engineer?

Ground Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software systems that support space missions from the ground. Their work typically involves building tools for mission control, telemetry processing, satellite communication, and data management. These engineers ensure that spacecraft can be monitored, commanded, and controlled from Earth, often collaborating closely with hardware engineers and mission operators. They play a crucial role in mission success by enabling real-time data analysis, automation, and troubleshooting for space operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a ground software engineer?

To thrive as a Ground Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like C++, Java, or Python), a background in computer science or engineering, and knowledge of satellite ground systems. Familiarity with software development tools, real-time operating systems, and experience with mission control systems or telemetry processing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable software that supports mission-critical ground operations and fosters collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What challenges does a ground software engineer face when integrating new systems with existing ground infrastructure?

Ground Software Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new software with legacy ground systems, such as ensuring compatibility between different hardware interfaces and communication protocols. They may also need to address issues related to real-time data processing, security requirements, and system scalability. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including hardware engineers, network specialists, and mission operations personnel—is essential to identify potential integration issues early and develop effective solutions.

What is the difference between Ground Software Engineer vs Satellite Software Engineer?

AspectGround Software EngineerSatellite Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields; experience with embedded systems and real-time softwareSimilar credentials; focus on embedded systems, real-time software, and aerospace standards
Work EnvironmentGround stations, control centers, labs, often in aerospace or defense industriesSatellite onboard systems, spacecraft, aerospace facilities
Employer & IndustryAerospace, defense, satellite communication companiesSatellite manufacturers, space agencies, aerospace firms
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles in satellite ground control and software developmentRoles related to satellite onboard software development

While both roles involve embedded and real-time software skills, Ground Software Engineers focus on developing and maintaining ground station systems and control software, whereas Satellite Software Engineers work on onboard satellite systems and firmware. The roles often overlap in skills but differ in environment and specific responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Ground Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Ground Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ground Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Ground Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Ground Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $167,085 per year, or $80.3 per hour.

Ground Software Engineer (Senior)

AST SpaceMobile

Lanham, MD • On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.
This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.
AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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