Software Engineer – Python & Kubernetes Integration

Awetomaton is seeking a Software Engineer to support the TAP Lab at the Boulder Ground Information Facility (BGIF) in Boulder, Colorado. You will work with a small team to adapt, integrate, test, and transition a prototype application that detects and separates closely spaced objects in EO/IR imagery. In this role, you will lead the software integration effort required to connect the Python-based prototype to operational message types, systems, and infrastructure. You will help transform research software into a reliable, maintainable application that can be deployed first in a testbed and ultimately in an operational Kubernetes environment. The application uses Python, NumPy, scikit-image, PyTorch, and Protocol Buffers–style messages. The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, or a related field, with three to seven years of relevant experience. This position must be performed on-site at the BGIF in Boulder, Colorado. An active SECRET security clearance is required. We are considering candidates through September, with a planned start date in October 2026. Criteria for success • Communicate effectively in written and verbal form with engineers, users, and decision-makers. • Demonstrate initiative when working with limited guidance or ambiguous requirements. • Develop reliable and maintainable operational applications. • Design clear interfaces and resolve complex integration problems. • Develop automated tests that provide confidence in software behavior and algorithm performance. • Collaborate effectively within a small, multidisciplinary team. Required Experience and Skills • Bachelor of Science in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, or a related engineering discipline. • At least three years of professional software engineering experience. • At least one year of professional Python development experience. • Experience developing modular, reusable, and testable software. • Experience integrating software components through structured messages, APIs, or other defined interfaces. • Experience with container technologies such as Docker or Podman. • Experience with Linux-based development and deployment environments. • Proficiency with software configuration management using Git. • Active SECRET security clearance. • Ability to work on-site at the BGIF in Boulder, Colorado. Desired Education and Experience • Master of Science in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, or a related discipline. • Experience deploying and operating applications in Kubernetes. • Experience defining or integrating Protocol Buffers messages. • Experience transitioning research or prototype software into testbed or operational environments. • Experience supporting Python applications that use NumPy, scikit-image, or PyTorch. • Familiarity with EO/IR, OPIR, GEOINT, image processing, or sensor-data systems. • Experience with automated build, test, security-scanning, and deployment pipelines. • Experience with GitFlow, GitOps, GitHub, GitLab, or comparable team-development workflows. • Experience diagnosing performance, memory, dependency, and data-compatibility issues in distributed systems. About Awetomaton We build software that enables humans to make informed decisions from raw intel data, with a specialization in satellite collection. We are a Dayton-based defense startup that believes there is a critical skill & culture gap - one we are filling with high-output, mission focused engineering talent. Results matter to our customers. We've never lost a customer because we deliver what they need. Awetomaton is where you do work that matters with a passionate team in an environment that inspires your creativity. Benefits We provide industry leading benefits that balance your health & wellbeing today, as well as lay a solid financial future into retirement. Highlights of our benefit plan include: • Flexible time off totaling 36 days / year. No approvals required. • 100% 401k company match up to IRS annual limits. This is a benefit of up to $24,500 for 2026. • Health plan through Blue Cross Blue Shield with Health Savings Account (HSA). We pay 95% of employee premiums including family plans. • Employee favorite: Tech and Wellness reimbursement of $3000 / year. Treat yourself with the newest gadgets or athletic gear. No approvals required. • Annual profit sharing as 401k contribution. No set percent and dependent on annual company performance. Benefit is above and beyond 401k match. • MacBook laptop and well-equipped office spaces for optimal productivity in office and on-the-go.