Systems

We make the parts work together: software, electronics, networks and IT that connect every machine, team and site.

Frontier work hiring now: Write the software, design the electronics and run the networks and IT that tie a whole operation together: embedded and flight code, power and RF hardware, cybersecurity, data platforms and the links out to every rig in the field.

On Earth

On Earth this is software engineering, electrical and embedded engineering, IT, networking, cybersecurity and data work, plus the systems design that decides how all of it fits together. It covers everyone from the engineer laying out a circuit board to the help desk that keeps a plant online.

In space

A signal takes roughly 3 to 22 minutes to travel between Mars and Earth, depending on where the planets are. Signals go through NASA's Deep Space Network and orbiters acting as relays, so the link has to work without live help.

Source: NASA: Deep Space Network

Roles on our board now

Real titles from current openings that lead toward Systems work. 109 internship · 45 entry · 338 experienced

Core skills

Python and C++
Networking
Linux and cloud basics
Cybersecurity basics
RF and antennas basics

Tools you'll see

Oscilloscopes and SDRs
Python
Git and CI
KiCad or Altium
Linux

Earth backgrounds that transfer

Software developers
IT and help desk staff
Network and security engineers
Telecom and cable technicians
Military signals and avionics techs
Ham radio operators

Starting out

Electrical or computer engineering, CubeSat teams and avionics internships. Computer science, IT certificates and CubeSat teams count too. Our Systems Academy track is a good first step.

Changing careers

Software, electrical, IT and telecom experience all transfer. Start with the Systems track, then aim at software, embedded, electrical, IT or network roles.

Academy track

The Systems Track: Spacecraft Links and Flight Software Basics track is open: 4 modules and a final test, free for crew members.

Start the track

Systems ranks

Ranks reflect Mars Mining Academy progress. They are not job titles and do not mean employment. Everyone starts at Systems Tech 1 the moment they join and pick Systems. Ranks are worked out from the quizzes you pass, the certificates you earn and the projects you finish. You can't set them yourself.

Systems Tech 1 MM-R1
Join the department. Your Rank 1 coursework starts right away: the first core modules of your track.
Systems Tech 2 MM-R2
Pass 2 module quizzes in this department's track and fill in your resume basics: name, contact and target role, education and training, professional experience and skills.
Systems Tech 3 MM-R3
Pass every module quiz in this department's track, earn its track certificate, and finish early life, the work-style interview, passions and at least one portfolio item.
Systems Eng MM-R4
Earn the track certificate and pass the Rank 4 coursework modules. A solo real-world project will be added once projects open. Coming: projects aren't open yet.
Senior Eng MM-R5
Pass the Rank 5 coursework modules and finish a team project with other crew members. Coming: projects aren't open yet.
Systems Chief MM-R6
Pass the Rank 6 coursework modules, lead a team project and pass the capstone. Coming: projects aren't open yet.

Changing department

You serve in one department at a time and start at Systems Tech 1 (R1). You can change department whenever you like, with no wait and no penalty. Every department keeps the rank and certificates you earned there, so if you switch back you pick up where you left off.

You can hold top rank in every department. That takes years, because the higher ranks need real-world projects and team work, not just quizzes.

Is this you?

You want to know how the whole thing fits together, not just your part
You enjoy electronics and code together
You stay calm when something breaks at 2 a.m.

If you nodded at two or more, Systems is worth a look. Not sure? Take the quiz.

Join the crew