Ground Software Systems Architect
Umbra
Ground Software Systems Architect
Umbra
Provides real-time SAR satellite imagery data
Umbra · Reston, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-10-27
Salary: USD 195,000–235,000
Workplace: on_site
Department: Remote Sensing
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
Remote Sensing – The Data
Remote Sensing is where Umbra got its start, and our agile Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation remains the most capable on the market. We transform satellite data into real-world, actionable insights that strengthen U.S. national security and intelligence, support disaster response, and advance scientific discovery. Our team delivers data at scale with unmatched quality, persistence, and the speed and responsiveness our partners demand.
If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that’s redefining what’s possible in remote sensing, you belong here at Umbra.
About the Job
The Ground Software Systems Architect is responsible for defining, designing, integrating, validating, and delivering secure, mission-critical ground software systems supporting advanced space, ISR, and national security missions. This hands-on technical leadership role serves as the ground software systems architecture lead for a key customer program, translating complex mission requirements and operational challenges into scalable, resilient, and secure software and enterprise solutions across classified computing environments.
The ideal candidate brings a combination of deep technical expertise, systems-level thinking, and strong customer-facing leadership. They understand how space and ground systems integrate, have experience developing and deploying software in classified environments, and can navigate complex customer organizations while balancing technical objectives, program priorities, and stakeholder expectations.
Working closely with software, hardware, network, cybersecurity, mission engineering teams, and government stakeholders, this individual will lead technical strategy, architecture, integration, and execution throughout the program lifecycle. Success in this role requires someone who can take ownership of complex technical challenges, lead multidisciplinary teams, communicate effectively with technical and nontechnical stakeholders, and drive solutions from initial customer needs through operational deployment.
This position is based on-site in our Reston, VA, Arlington, VA, or Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office. If you are interested in working from the Santa Barbara office, high travel of 50%+ will be required for the first year.
Key Responsibilities
Required Qualifications
Desired Qualifications
Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions requiring an active U.S. Government security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role’s function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $195,000 - $235,000 DOE.
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Umbra builds high-resolution SAR microsatellites for real-time Earth observation. Its satellites use Synthetic Aperture Radar to capture radar imagery day or night and through clouds, delivering precise data for applications such as environmental monitoring, disaster response, and national security. Data is accessed via subscriptions and customized imaging services, with customers including government agencies, private firms, and research institutions. The company operates end-to-end, overseeing the development, launch, and operation of its SAR satellites, and provides imagery through a platform or data feeds. Unlike competitors who may offer optical imagery or smaller-scale sensors, Umbra specializes in SAR microsatellites that provide all-weather, high-resolution radar data in real time. The goal is to help solve global challenges by supplying reliable, timely satellite observations that support decision-making and strategic planning.
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