Automation Engineer

Role Build the automation backbone that enables Azora's optical ground stations to operate independently: autonomous pass scheduling, calibration routines, health monitoring, and fault recovery. As a lead, you will define the automation architecture across a growing global network of ground sites. Responsibilities Architect and implement end-to-end automation for ground station operations: target acquisition, pass execution, weather-driven decision-making, and safe-state recovery. Develop hardware control software for telescopes, gimbals, weather sensors, and optical bench instrumentation (motion controllers, cameras, power systems). Build automated calibration, self-test, and built-in-test (BIT) routines that keep stations operational without on-site staff. Design monitoring, alerting, and remote diagnostics infrastructure across multiple geographically distributed sites. Define interfaces between site-level automation and the network-level scheduler/orchestration layer. Establish software engineering practices for the automation stack: CI/CD, hardware-in-the-loop testing, simulation environments, and release management. Build, lead and mentor a small team of automation and controls engineers as the ground network scales. Required Qualifications BS/MS in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical/Mechatronics Engineering, or related field. 5+ years building automation or control software for physical systems (robotics, observatories, test automation, industrial control, or similar). Strong programming skills in Python and at least one systems language (C++, Rust, or Go). Experience with hardware interfaces and protocols: serial, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, CAN, or similar. Demonstrated experience taking automation systems from prototype to reliable 24/7 operation. Preferred Experience automating telescopes, observatories, or optical ground stations (e.g., INDI/ASCOM ecosystems, custom mount control). Familiarity with orbital mechanics and satellite pass prediction (e.g., SGP4, Skyfield). Experience with distributed systems, message buses (MQTT, ZeroMQ, gRPC), and time synchronization (NTP/PTP). Prior technical leadership or team lead experience in a startup environment. Location This is an onsite/hybrid role based in Tempe, AZ or the Bay Area, CA – hardware work that’s hard to do remotely. Some travel expected for field deployment and vendor/manufacturing visits. Benefits: Generous equity Competitive healthcare (including options for vision and dental) 401(k) Unlimited PTO EEO & Reasonable Accommodations Azora is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know by contacting info@azora.space Export Control To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (iii) protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (iv) be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Salary ranges are based on the following criteria: Level 1 (starting from $130,000 USD): 3-5 years of experience in relevant roles. Level 2 (starting from $160,000 USD): 5-15 years of experience in relevant roles. Final salary is based on geographic location, experience, skills, and qualifications. About this Company Azora is building high-bandwidth communications infrastructure for environments where fiber can’t reach. This work spans LEO spacecraft constellations, lunar exploration missions, GEO satcom, deployable optical ground for defense, and data centers both on- and off-world. To enable rapid global proliferation Azora is developing compact and modular optical terminals small enough to deploy from a backpack, and space terminals that support high speed optical links from LEO out to the Moon.