(Senior) Backend Developer (Java Python, Microservices)

Stellenbeschreibung:

Your mission

Your mission is to develop and maintain a scalable asynchronous backend that powers OKAPI: Orbits end-to-end solutions across mission design Space Situational Awareness (SSA), Space Traffic Management (STM), Flight Dynamics (FD) and Space Traffic Coordination (STC) supporting the full lifecycle of satellite operators.

You design and implement robust Java-based microservices that process and distribute large volumes of orbital and telemetry data, enabling reliable APIs and automation pipelines. You work on the systems that allow satellite operators and space agencies to analyse, coordinate, and protect their missions in an increasingly congested space environment.

Research shows that women are less likely than men to apply for a position unless they meet 100% of the listed requirements. Please know that if it is your case but you are passionate about space technology, building reliable software, and contributing to a more sustainable space environment we strongly encourage you to apply.

Your tasks and responsibilities

Design, develop and maintain asynchronous microservice-based backend systems in Java with selected components or utilities in Python
Implement and optimize data processing and distribution pipelines handling large volumes of orbital telemetry and mission data
Design and maintain message-based communication between microservices (e.g. via RabbitMQ or similar brokers)
Collaborate closely with space engineers and scientists to translate mission requirements into reliable scalable software solutions
Take ownership of backend architecture ensuring performance, fault tolerance and maintainability across distributed services
Define and document implementation plans from system design to deployment in a cloud-native environment
Maintain a high level of code quality with automated testing and compliance with security and engineering standards
Improve CI/CD pipelines, observability, and automation to support continuous delivery and system stability
Analyze and resolve complex issues in distributed systems focusing on efficiency and robustness
Work in small interdisciplinary teams contributing backend expertise to cross‑functional projects

Your profile

Must-haves

Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or a related field, or formal IT specialist training
Several years of professional experience in backend software development with Java (Spring Boot or similar)
Good working knowledge of Python for scripting, automation or data‑processing tasks
Solid understanding of microservice architectures, asynchronous systems and distributed communication patterns
Experience designing and maintaining RESTful and/or message‑based APIs (e.g. RabbitMQ)
Strong grasp of software architecture principles including modular design, scalability and maintainability
Hands‑on experience with testing, code quality assurance and secure software development practices
Familiarity with Git‑based workflows, CI/CD pipelines and modern DevOps practices
Knowledge of observability tools (Datadog, Sentry, OpenTelemetry or similar)
Experience with database technologies (MongoDB, PostgreSQL or similar)
Experience with automated testing frameworks and performance benchmarking
Ability to plan, implement and review complex features in collaboration with engineers and scientists
Background or interest in the space or aerospace domain
Proactive communication, structured working style and good English written and spoken

Nice-to-haves

Experience with containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes)
Understanding of security concepts, encryption and authentication (OAuth2, OpenID Connect)
Familiarity with agile methodologies (Scrum or Kanban) and collaboration tools (Jira, Confluence)
Experience in technical leadership, code reviews and maintaining coding standards

Why us

Flat hierarchy, small teams, flexible hours
Onboarding in Braunschweig, then on‑site in Brunswick or hybrid in Brunswick or Munich
Early ownership and influence on technical direction
Training budget for continuous development
Corporate benefits like BahnCard 25/50, bike leasing, German classes via Lingoda
Join space events and conferences; advocate for sustainable space
Free office drinks, monthly company lunch, regular after‑work activities

About us

OKAPI: Orbits is at the forefront of space sustainability, addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the space industry: the growing problem of crowded orbital regimes and the need for more efficient satellite operations. We provide end‑to‑end solutions that help various space industry players cover their SSA and STM & STC needs. We are committed to safeguarding space missions and access to space for all humanity. Join us on our mission.

Last but not least we would like to share with you that research shows that women are less likely to apply for a position unless they meet 100% of the listed requirements.

Please know that if it is your case but you are passionate about space technology, building reliable software and contributing to a more sustainable space environment we strongly encourage you to apply.