Manager Astronomy Software Engineer Jobs in California

From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is unlocking continuous, real-time observations of space with the industry’s first line of vertically integrated hardware and software products. The company is the result of a merger between PlaneWave Instruments, the leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing in the US, and OurSky, a company founded by SpaceX’s former VP of software engineering to create a developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space’s full line of products serves all sectors of the space industry including commercial, science, education, and government customers, as well as astronomy enthusiasts discovering the cosmos.

Observable Space is backed by top institutional investors–Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Full Stack Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. This role will involve deep engagement with our backend microservices, javascript front ends, and c++ edge processing applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in software engineering, with specific expertise in distributed systems, relational database design, reactive frontend programming, and a keen eye for design. This role will report to the Manager of Platform Engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain backend microservices, reactive frontends, and C++ edge applications.
• Contribute to architectural decisions for distributed systems and ensure technical scalability.
• Design and optimize relational database schemas, ETL pipelines, and data warehousing solutions.
• Debug and resolve complex production issues across the full software stack (backend, frontend, and edge).
• Ensure high reliability and performance in production systems.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to define and deliver solutions for our customers.
• Write clear technical documentation, including RFCs, design specifications, and product requirements, for multi-team projects.
• Participate in design and code reviews, promoting best practices in test-driven development.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a relevant software engineering role.
• Strong programming skills in Java, Kotlin, C++, or C# (we love our statically typed object oriented languages!).
• Excellent data modeling skills- extensive experience working with RDBMSs, ETL processes, and data warehousing.
• Experience in a test-driven development environment.
• Acute product sense, placing an emphasis on user experience.
• Ability to thrive in a fast paced dynamic environment while utilizing data to pivot to the most important task on hand.
• An iterative mindset- perfect is the enemy of good.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Kotlin for backend programming and have an allergy to monolithic frameworks and ORMs.
• Experience with TypeScript and React to create complex user interfaces.
• Experience working with foreign function interfaces to call rust and c++ from the JVM.
• A love of astronomy, physics, and science.

What We Offer

• Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
• Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.
• Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
• Unlimited PTO – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
• Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
• Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
• Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
• Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Salary Range | $140,000 - $180,000