Ground Software System Architect, Umbra, VA, US

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 on the lookout for a Ground Software System Architect to craft and implement a robust ground segment that aligns with the unique operational and security demands of Umbra Mission Solutions programs. In this role, you will break down and develop requirements, design the software architecture, write code, and rigorously test services across the ground architecture, encompassing command, control, communications, and scheduling. This is an exciting chance to conceive and introduce innovative features and capabilities that enhance Umbra’s current software framework, specifically tailored to the unique needs of our Mission Solutions programs. The ideal candidate is a solution-oriented problem solver, leader, an outstanding communicator, and possesses a keen systems-thinking perspective.

Our aim is to hire this position to work in either our Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office or Arlington, VA office. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and technical implementation of the Mission Solutions ground segment product line, leveraging Umbra’s current and future infrastructure and technology.
• Architect, build, test, and maintain applications that support satellite operations, including mission scheduling, spacecraft command, telemetry, and mission data pipelines, automation of spacecraft operations, and anomaly detection and response.
• Perform systems engineering and use case analysis to identify and document functional components of ground architecture solutions and their interfaces.
• Provide software architecture expertise to cross-functional engineering teams.
• Establish and adhere to DevOps practices that ensure that customer and satellite-operational needs are met with quality and performance
• Deploy ground system alongside Umbra operations and customer teams.
• Support business development and capture efforts as a key technical contributor, including authorship and review of formal responses and proposals for new opportunities.
• Inform the technical portfolio development across the company, ensuring alignment between strategy, mission requirements, and product line architecture.
• Travel will be required approximately 15% between Umbra facilities in California and Northern Virginia, as well as to partner and customer facilities.
• Other professional duties as assigned.