Principal Software Test Engineer

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.

• 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 and implement complex software systems.

• Strong leadership skills to lead a team of engineers.

• Ability to make high-level design decisions.

• Ability to drive the strategic direction of the software engineering team.

• Demonstrated project leadership strong problem-solving skills and effective communication with non-technical stakeholders.

• Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban.

• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required.

• Advanced degree in Computer Science Software Engineering or a related field.

• Proficiency in multiple software development environments such as Linux Windows containerized environments etc.

• Experience with at least one of the following: spacecraft flight software ground command and control software or other aerospace application software products.

• Experience architecting and maintaining automated testing tools and frameworks.

• Extensive experience employing software testing methodologies and best practices.

• Practical experience using continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) tools and processes.

• Extensive experience and understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and agile methodologies.

• Proficiency with multiple agile methodologies such as Scrum and Kanban.

• Ability to lead teams on complex projects involving both small and large engineering teams.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced collaborative environment across multiple engineering disciplines and functions.

• Experience with testing software systems used in aerospace or other highly regulated industries.

• Proficiency in multiple scripting languages such as Python JavaScript or Shell.

• Proficiency with object-oriented software design patterns.

• Experience with security testing practices and tools.

• Experience using cloud-based testing environments and tools.

• Experience with test management tools such as JIRA TestRail or similar.

• Experience in leading and managing software testing teams and testing campaigns.

• Experience with spacecraft simulation software discrete time simulation or software modeling of hardware.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels of the organization.

• Practical experience utilizing software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop test methods.

• Familiarity with fault-tolerant software design and safety-critical systems.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior and mid-career engineers.

• Strong understanding of software system architectures and design patterns.

• Proven track record of making impactful design decisions in complex software projects.

• Demonstrated leadership of software test teams or software test campaigns

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.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a 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.

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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