Senior Software Engineer (Cloud Architect)

SkyGrid, a Wisk Company, exists to open the sky for autonomous flight. Based in Austin, Texas, SkyGrid builds ground-based high-assurance third-party services to enable the safe operations and airspace integration of highly automated and autonomous aircraft. SkyGrid also acts as a key operational nexus for advanced air mobility, integrating and managing data, infrastructure, access, and traffic to support seamless and efficient air traffic services. SkyGrid is seeking a Senior Software Engineer (Cloud Architect) to lead the design and ownership of cloud-based system and software architectures. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) including System Architects, System Engineers, Software Engineers, and Program Managers. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in cloud and distributed systems with strong leadership, communication, and experience in mission and safety-critical environments. This position reports to the Certification Software Engineering Manager and while a hybrid workplace is preferred, it can be considered a fully remote role. Performance Objectives: Deliver cloud architecture topology and trade studies. Complete the software architecture design, ensuring alignment with mission-critical requirements. Validate architecture against safety, certification, scalability, and security requirements. Lead cloud architecture activities through design reviews, product certification, and entry into service. Responsibilities: Lead the design and development of scalable, secure, and mission-critical cloud architectures (AWS, Azure, or GCP). Conduct topology analyses and trade studies to inform architectural decisions. Define and maintain system and software architecture aligned with mission requirements. Develop Software Design Descriptions (SDDs) and support subsystem architecture evolution through design reviews (PDR/CDR). Integrate cloud systems with avionics, embedded systems, and legacy platforms. Develop Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and support system-of-systems integration. Support certification efforts through documentation, validation, and evidence generation. Design and implement secure DevSecOps pipelines and accredited CI/CD workflows. Support verification and validation (V&V) planning and execution. Engage with government and regulatory stakeholders. Qualifications: 7+ years of experience in software engineering. 5+ years of experience architecting and developing cloud-based solutions in highly technical or aerospace environments. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related STEM fields. Experience with DO-178C-compliant software development. Strong knowledge of distributed systems, cloud platforms, and secure architecture design. Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in engineering or related field. Experience with safety-critical or mission-critical systems. Familiarity with advanced air mobility, autonomous systems, or defense/aerospace domains. Join Our Team and Enjoy Exceptional Benefits: Comprehensive Health Coverage from Day One : Enjoy immediate access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HSA and FSA options. Generous Retirement Contributions : Benefit from an automatic company 401k contribution program, with no match required, plus an additional company matching program to boost your retirement savings. Calm Annual Membership : Prioritize your mental health with complimentary access to mindfulness and meditation resources. Discounted ClassPass Membership : Stay active and healthy with access to thousands of fitness studios and gyms nationwide. Investment in Your Growth : Receive an annual stipend for learning and development to support your continuous education and skill development Engaging Team Activities : Participate in quarterly team-building events and celebrations organized by our dedicated culture committee. Fully Stocked Kitchen : Enjoy a variety of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled throughout the day. Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. An employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily, and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, if it does not pose undue hardship.