Ground Operations Engineer III

At Sierra Space we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.  

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers we aim to safeguard our nation sustain human presence in space and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.  

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven and together we are an extraordinary team.

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.  

We’re looking for team members who align with our values mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus not a requirement.

Support and execute ground operations for test launch and landing campaigns at sites across multiple facilities. Perform spacecraft and launch vehicle processing activities including MES authoring procedure validation integration operations and post-flight recovery. Execute hazardous operations procedures maintain facility protocols and verify compliance with range safety and quality requirements. Coordinate with cross-functional teams including engineering quality launch vehicle providers and range operations to support mission success. Document processing activities anomalies and lessons learned. Travel required to support field operations at government-regulated aerospace facilities and commercial spaceports during campaign execution phases. 

• Support spacecraft processing from end of production through integrated test into launch and landing including: MES authoring and ownership procedure validation payload integration propellant loading operations electrical and mechanical checkouts configuration management flight hardware handling and logistics coordination. 

• Perform spacecraft integration activities with launch vehicles including mating to adapters encapsulation within payload fairings and interface verification. Validate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and verify compliance with launch provider requirements.  

• Execute hazardous procedures for propellant loading and other critical activities while maintaining clean room protocols to prevent contamination. Verify compliance with range safety requirements and quality standards. Support risk assessments for non-standard operations. Document processing activities and anomalies and incorporate lessons learned into procedures and processes. 

• Support coordination with launch vehicle teams range operations mission/flight operations Engineering Quality Supply Chain and other stakeholders. Communicate with external stakeholders including program customers and launch providers during launch campaigns.

• Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +3 yrs experience).

• Typically 5+ years of related experience.

• Expertise in Mechanical Engineering technical standards principles theories concepts and techniques and general knowledge of related disciplines.

• Experience managing discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE).

• Ability to provide guidance to entry-level engineers.

• Ability to provide solutions to wide-ranging technical problems that are imaginative thorough practical and consistent with organization objectives.

• Ability to work under general direction to independently determine and develop approaches to solutions.

• Strong working knowledge of design analysis and test methods tools and processes related to mechanical systems propulsion structures and/or environmental systems.

• Proficiency with engineering CAD tools such as NX SolidWorks or similar including advanced understanding of detail drawing standards and GD&T.

• Experience with project management and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Ability to work independently and within a team demonstrating effective collaboration skills.

• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality results.

• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes material sciences and their impact on mechanical systems.

• Experience with end-item testing and validation including the ability to design and execute complex test plans.

Pay Range:

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills education experience internal equity and market competitiveness.

At Sierra Space we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations. 

 
We also offer a generous benefit package including medical dental and vision plans 401(k) with 150% match up to 6% life insurance 3 weeks paid time off and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites spacecraft and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process please contact us.

What We Do

Securing The Freedom of Operations Headquartered in Colorado Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms critical subsystems reusable spaceplanes hypersonic technologies propulsion systems and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security Civil customers and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation sustain human exploration in space and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.

Why Work With Us

At Sierra Space you’ll find a supportive respectful and upbeat culture where your opinions matter and your personal contributions have impact. If you’re thinking about your own next frontier we’d love to help you explore it.

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