Senior Software Engineer / Python / Onsite

Job Description
This is a full-time hybrid opportunity based in the Santa Monica, CA metro area with an innovative, VC-backed startup transforming aviation ground operations. As part of a small, agile team, you'll leverage modern technologies to build a cutting-edge AI-powered Ground Traffic Control platform. You'll play a key role in designing and managing data systems that power a flagship product streamlining aircraft turnaround management and enabling airfield autonomy.
If you're passionate about aviation, mobility, and real-time systems, this is your chance to make a tangible impact. You'll work closely with both internal and external teams to design scalable, reliable data solutions in a fast-paced, startup environment.
If you're ready to take ownership of a critical data platform and build systems that will define the future of airside operations, we want to hear from you!

Required Skills & Experience

• 4+ years of experience as a software or data engineer, ideally in a real-time or operational environment
• Deep experience with data pipelines (Kafka, Airflow, Debezium, etc.) and cloud-native infrastructure (AWS, Google Cloud Platform, Terraform)
• Proficiency in SQL and NoSQL databases (schema design, performance tuning)
• Strong backend development skills in Python, Go, Java, or similar languages
• Experience with REST and/or gRPC APIs
• A product mindset: You enjoy talking to users and vendors to understand problems before solving them
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Comfortable in startup environments, with high ownership and autonomy

Desired Skills & Experience

• Experience with real-time, event-driven systems (MQTT, WebSockets, etc.)
• Background in aviation, mobility, IoT, or logistics
• Previous experience at an early-stage startup
• Familiarity with sensor data, GPS, or fleet telemetry

Tech Breakdown

• 60% Data Engineering (ingestion pipelines, real-time processing, storage, and delivery)
• 30% System Architecture (designing infrastructure, building APIs, cloud architecture)
• 10% Cross-functional Collaboration (working closely with internal teams, vendors, and field users)

Daily Responsibilities

• 70% Hands-On Development (building, testing, and deploying data systems)
• 20% Cross-functional Collaboration (understanding user and vendor needs, technical discussions)
• 10% Strategic Planning/Design (architecting systems, refining data models)

You will receive the following benefits:

• Equity eligibility
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Unlimited PTO
• Flexible work environment with occasional in-office requirements
• Growth potential with mentorship from experienced engineers and founders

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.