Backend Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 29, 2026. First seen by Alion on Jul 6, 2026. Sphinx Defense scores A on the Alion truth index.
ABOUT SPHINX
Sphinx builds software to solve complex national security problems in Space. Founded by engineers and technologists with deep experience across commercial and defense technology, we were frustrated by the outdated and insecure technology America's service members are forced to rely on. We're here to do better.
We’re focused on building modern, scalable products with an emphasis on using open source technologies. Expect talented, motivated, and interesting colleagues who emphasize collaboration, transparency, and individual responsibility.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Sphinx is hiring a Backend Engineer to join our Space Communications team building a ground communications and data-transport platform for US government satellites. As a Backend Engineer you will lead the development of core platform services, designing and building technology to support the operations of a wide variety of US Government satellites. You'll work as both an individual contributor and a lead for more junior engineers.
We’re looking for a track record of the following:
- Experience working on multi-tenant services on public cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP
- Developing and consuming APIs and services as part of platform ecosystem
- Developing with an emphasis on automation and security
- Willingness to own a technical problem end-to-end
- A habit of self-directed learning of new technologies
- The ability to work well with a team
- The ability to communicate clearly
You might be a good fit if:
- You have 3-5+ years’ of progressively responsible software engineering experience
- You have extensive experience with Python, FastAPI, postgres, AWS, Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform
- You have experience architecting and building APIs and backend services
- You can demonstrate in-depth knowledge of at least one commercial cloud platform and its associated services
- Are comfortable working with some ambiguity and able to self-direct your work
- You’ve made enough mistakes and booked enough wins to know what not to build and know what good looks like
Nice to have:
- Prior experience working in space, satellite communications, or building ground systems.
LOCATION
This hybrid role requires a regular presence in Colorado Springs, CO.
COMPENSATION
- This role is between $138,000 - $167,000 base salary.
- Quarterly bonus structure
- Equity ownership in the company
- 100% Premium coverage for medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents
- Health Savings Accounts
- Life Insurance
- 401k employer contribution plan
- Flexible paid time off policy
- Flexible work/remote work policy
BENEFITS
Compensation includes competitive salary, meaningful equity ownership, profit sharing, employer 401(k) contribution, and 100% employer covered medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
At Sphinx Defense, we are devoted to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Sphinx Defense is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.