Software Engineer

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

• Develop and maintain Python-based systems for automating rocket testing, manufacturing, and launch operations.
• Build tools for real-time telemetry data collection and analysis to support rapid decision-making.
• Collaborate with teams across engineering, manufacturing, and launch to identify software needs and ship impactful solutions.
• Contribute to internal tools, APIs (REST/gRPC), and cloud-native infrastructure that enable fast iteration and high reliability.
• Troubleshoot and improve systems that must operate under high complexity and extreme conditions.

• 3+ years of experience in software engineering, including production-level Python development
• Solid understanding of system design, data pipelines, and APIs
• Experience with cloud-native services (e.g., AWS, Kubernetes, Docker) and telemetry or time-series systems
• Familiarity with REST/gRPC APIs and common data serialization formats (e.g., JSON, YAML, Protobuf)
• Proven ability to deliver software in high-stakes or cross-functional environments
• Strong communication skills and a proactive mindset
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)

• Experience in aerospace, robotics, or hardware-software systems
• Exposure to TypeScript, Go, or C/C++
• Open-source contributions or relevant side projects

The pay range for this role is: $140,000 - $180,000 per year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology  trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.