Job Description
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.
About the RoleThe Principal Software Engineer role involves designing developing and testing software applications for space systems and technologies. This advanced position requires extensive expertise in multiple programming languages an advanced understanding of software development principles and the ability to design architect and implement complex software systems. The role includes writing clean maintainable code collaborating with team members to understand project requirements and contributing to the development of innovative software solutions. Additionally this position requires a deep understanding of software engineering processes advanced algorithmic knowledge and system scalability. The role also involves providing technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers.In this role you will design develop and test software applications for space systems and technologies while writing clean maintainable code that adheres to best practices and coding standards. You will architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements and collaborate with team members to understand project needs contributing to the development of effective software solutions. Utilizing version control systems such as Git you will manage code changes and work collaboratively with team members. You will participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and adherence to development standards troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues in a timely manner and document software configurations processes and procedures for future reference. Staying current with industry trends and advancements in software development and space technologies will be essential. Additionally you will independently contribute to the design and development of software applications conduct unit tests and participate in code reviews. You will also provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers fostering collaboration and growth within the team.About You
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.
Minimum Qualifications:Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +10 yrs experience).
Typically 12+ years of related experience.
Extensive expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles.
Ability to design architect implement and test complex software systems.
Expert understanding of software engineering processes advanced algorithmic knowledge domain-specific design patterns performance tuning and system scalability.
Mastery in writing scalable optimized code ability to design complex software systems and knowledge of best practices including secure coding and system architecture principles.
Ability to independently contribute to the design and development of software applications conduct unit tests and participate in code reviews.
Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban.
An active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required
Advanced degree in Computer Science Software Engineering or a related field.
Experience with classified enterprise ground systems.
Proficiency in programming languages (Python C++ C#) and their ecosystems.
Experience with DevSecOps technologies such as Docker and GitLab.
Familiarity with industry standards and message flows such as CCSDS and Jasflight.
In-depth knowledge of scripting languages and automation tools.
Proven experience with software development methodologies such as Agile or Kanban/Scrum.
Superior communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale software projects from inception to completion.
Strong ability to create and evaluate trade studies between different architectures.
Ability to write and maintain technical documentation.
Advanced leadership and project management capabilities including vendor and customer management.
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$184628.00 - $253884.50Your 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.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires current/active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF) a federal government agency handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include but are not limited to allegiance to the U.S. foreign influence foreign preference criminal conduct security violations and illegal drug use.
Elevate Your CareerAt 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.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent work experience
- 12+ years of related experience
- Extensive expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles
- Ability to design architect implement and test complex software systems
- Expert understanding of software engineering processes and advanced algorithmic knowledge
- Mastery in writing scalable optimized code
- Experience with Agile and Scrum/Kanban methodologies
- Active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance
What the Team is Saying

Sierra Space Compensation & Benefits Highlights
- Retirement Support—The 401(k) program is characterized as unusually strong with plan documents indicating a high employer match through 2024 and recent notes that it remains generous even if somewhat reduced. A multi‑year vesting schedule applies making tenure an important factor in realizing full value.
- Healthcare Strength—Medical dental and vision coverage are provided alongside HSA/FSA options life insurance disability coverage mental‑health support and an Employee Assistance Program. Together these elements form a comprehensive core health package.
- Leave & Time Off Breadth—Information points to roughly three weeks of PTO and about eleven paid holidays with some references to PTO accrual and carryover. Parental leave is also referenced adding breadth to the time‑off portfolio.
Sierra Space Insights
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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Date Posted
05/14/2026
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