Backend Engineer

Role overview

Sphinx Defense is hiring a Backend Engineer for its Space Communications team. You’ll build and lead development of core backend platform services for a ground communications and data-transport platform supporting US government satellites. The role blends hands-on individual contribution with leadership over more junior engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of core platform services for satellite ground communications and data transport.
• Design and build backend technology that supports operations across a variety of US Government satellites.
• Build and evolve multi-tenant services on public cloud infrastructure.
• Develop and consume APIs as part of a broader platform ecosystem.
• Emphasize automation and security in backend development.
• Own technical problems end-to-end.
• Collaborate effectively and communicate clearly with the team; help guide junior engineers.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of progressively responsible software engineering experience.
• Strong experience with Python and FastAPI.
• Experience with PostgreSQL.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP (in-depth knowledge of at least one).
• Experience with Docker and Kubernetes.
• Experience with Terraform.
• Proven ability to architect and build APIs and backend services.
• Comfortable operating with ambiguity; self-directed work style.
• Clear communication and strong teamwork skills.

Nice to have

• Prior experience in space, satellite communications, or building ground systems.

Clearance / eligibility

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
• Must be a U.S. citizen/national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations.

Location & work model

• Remote (with potential travel for client visits, company gatherings, and project needs).

Compensation & benefits

• $138,000 – $167,000 base salary
• Quarterly bonus, equity ownership, profit sharing
• 100% employer-covered medical/dental/vision for you and dependents, HSA, life insurance
• 401(k) employer contribution, flexible paid time off, flexible remote work policy.