Software Engineer I - Ground Software with Security Clearance
The Software Engineer I at Confidential Client is an entry-level role focused on designing, developing, and testing software applications for space systems. The position requires writing clean, maintainable code, collaborating with senior engineers, and adhering to best practices while supporting national security missions. Candidates must be able to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance and contribute effectively within a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, space and defense technology.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
About the Role
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Software Engineer I focused on ground software for space systems. This role supports engineering teams that design, develop, test, and maintain software for mission-critical ground systems. You will write clean, maintainable code, collaborate with senior engineers, and help deliver software that supports mission operations and national security objectives.
What You’ll Do
- Design, implement, test, and document software components for ground and mission-operations systems.
- Write clean, maintainable code that follows team standards and best practices.
- Use version control (Git) to manage code changes and collaborate with teammates.
- Participate in peer code reviews to ensure quality and compliance.
- Troubleshoot and resolve software defects and integration issues.
- Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing where applicable.
- Learn and apply domain-specific concepts such as telemetry, command-and-control (C2), and mission operations.
- Stay current with software engineering practices and relevant space/defense technologies.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field — or equivalent work experience.
- Typically 0–2 years of professional software development experience.
- Basic understanding of one or more programming languages and software development principles.
- Familiarity with Git and collaborative development workflows.
- Ability to write clear, maintainable code and follow coding standards.
- Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
Preferred Qualifications
- Frontend or full‑stack development experience (React, TypeScript, Node.js, FastAPI or similar).
- Experience with Windows and Linux/Unix development environments.
- Familiarity with networking basics (TCP/IP, sockets, client-server architectures).
- Exposure to CI/CD and automated testing frameworks.
- Experience or interest in command-and-control (C2), telemetry, or mission-operations software.
- Basic understanding of spacecraft, satellite, or ground system operations.
- Familiarity with Agile methodologies (Scrum/Kanban).
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay range (Colorado): $83,999.00 - $115,498.25 (annual). Your actual pay will be determined based on experience, skills, and internal equity.
- Competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision, retirement savings, life insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
- This posting complies with applicable state pay transparency requirements.
Location & Clearance
- Location: Foxfield, CO (on-site or as specified by the hiring team).
- IMPORTANT: This role requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.
Why Join Confidential Client
- Work on mission-critical ground systems that support space operations and national security.
- Grow your career with mentorship from experienced engineers in a collaborative environment.
- Gain hands-on experience with modern software stacks and domain-specific systems.
Recruiter Notes
Careertakes is managing this search as a third-party recruiting platform. Applicants may be considered for other matched opportunities via the Careertakes platform. Confidential Client is the hiring organization; company references in this listing have been redacted to "Confidential Client."
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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