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Senior Systems Programmer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Engineer

Westminster, CO

$105K - $144K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

As Senior System Engineer you will serve as a technical integrator and architect across Atom Computing's Research and Product Development programs. This individual will lead system definition, model ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$133K - $161K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

As Senior System Engineer you will serve as a technical integrator and architect across Atom Computing's Research and Product Development programs. This individual will lead system definition, model ...

As Senior System Engineer you will serve as a technical integrator and architect across Atom Computing's Research and Product Development programs. This individual will lead system definition, model ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Systems Programmer information

See Colorado salary details

$37

$60

$85

How much do senior systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior systems programmer in Colorado is $60.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.05 and $68.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior systems programmer?

Senior Systems Programmers are experienced professionals who design, implement, and maintain low-level software that enables computer systems and hardware to function efficiently. They often work on operating systems, device drivers, and system utilities, ensuring optimal performance and stability. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting complex system issues, optimizing code, and collaborating with other IT teams to support large-scale computing environments. Senior Systems Programmers typically have strong knowledge of languages like C, C++, and assembly, as well as deep understanding of operating system internals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior systems programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Systems Programmer, you need strong expertise in computer science fundamentals, systems programming languages (like C/C++ or Assembly), and operating system internals, often backed by a relevant degree and significant experience. Proficiency with debugging tools, version control systems (such as Git), and familiarity with mainframe or server platforms are typically required, with certifications in specific technologies being advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These combined skills ensure robust, efficient, and secure system operations, which are critical for business continuity and technological advancement.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems programmers, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Systems Programmers often encounter challenges such as managing complex legacy codebases, ensuring system scalability, and integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure. Addressing these challenges typically involves maintaining thorough documentation, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, and staying current with industry best practices through ongoing learning. Proactive communication and effective troubleshooting skills are also essential for resolving issues efficiently and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Programmer vs Systems Analyst?

AspectSenior Systems ProgrammerSystems Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CompTIA or MicrosoftBachelor's in Information Systems, Business, or related; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentIT departments, software development teams, technical supportBusiness units, IT departments, client-facing roles
Employer & IndustryTech companies, large enterprises, government agenciesBusinesses across industries, consulting firms, government
Search & Comparison IntentTechnical skills, programming, system maintenanceBusiness processes, system requirements, user needs

The main difference is that Senior Systems Programmers focus on coding, maintaining, and optimizing computer systems and software, while Systems Analysts primarily analyze business needs and design system solutions. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Senior Systems Programmer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Senior Systems Programmer job openings:

Senior Systems Engineer

Westminster, CO

CesiumAstro
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees

$105K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
 
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.
 
The Skylark product line is focused on the rapid design, build, and test of cutting-edge active phased array antennas (AESA) for terrestrial and airborne applications. Current programs span high-power, large-scale ground terminals for missile defense to commercial airline and helicopter connectivity solutions.  

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft, and aerospace systems, we would like to hear from you.

In this position, you will be responsible for leading the systems engineering activities required to define, develop, integrate, verify, and support complex aerospace systems throughout the product lifecycle. This role translates mission objectives, customer requirements, and system architecture into technical solutions that enable successful system integration and mission execution.

Working within a multidisciplinary engineering environment, the Senior Systems Engineer collaborates with software, hardware, mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, integration and test, mission operations, and program management teams to ensure systems meet technical, operational, cost, and schedule objectives. This role provides technical leadership from concept development through design, integration, verification, launch, and operational support while contributing to technical decision-making and risk management.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop system verification and validation strategies, including verification methods (test, analysis, demonstration, and inspection), acceptance criteria, and verification levels aligned with program requirements.
  • Define verification configurations, including hardware, software, firmware, and test environments required to support verification activities.
  • Develop and maintain verification documentation, verification cross-reference matrices (VCRM), requirements traceability matrices, and verification evidence packages.
  • Partner with Integration & Test teams to plan, coordinate, and support system integration and verification activities.
  • Evaluate test results, resolve technical discrepancies, and support corrective actions to ensure compliance with system requirements.
  • Support technical planning, Program Increment (PI) planning, staffing assessments, and engineering execution activities.
  • Prioritize systems engineering activities to meet technical, cost, schedule, and program milestones.
  • Participate in technical reviews, design reviews, customer meetings, and engineering milestone activities.
  • Mentor junior engineers on systems engineering best practices, requirements development, traceability, verification, and technical documentation.
  • Drive continuous improvement of engineering processes, systems engineering rigor, and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams to support successful program execution.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience with an emphasis on space-based communication payloads.
  • Strong knowledge of systems engineering principles and the systems development lifecycle.
  • Experience developing, managing, and verifying system and subsystem requirements.
  • Knowledge of systems architecture, interface management, systems integration, and configuration management.
  • Understanding verification, validation, and systems integration processes.
  • Ability to interpret customer requirements, Concept of Operations (CONOPS), and technical specifications to develop engineering solutions.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Familiarity with spacecraft mission planning, launch support, and on-orbit operations.
  • Experience supporting spacecraft system integration, mission readiness, and operational activities.
  • Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated engineering programs.
$133,000 - $161,000 a year
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.     CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
 
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
 
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.  Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.  
 
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
 
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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