Flight Controller Instructor – Senior Systems Engineer

Sierra Space Careers:

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 Role

The Dream Chaser Flight Controller Instructor’s primary responsibilities include:
• Develop training materials including computer-based training, instructor-led courses, simulation scripts, and other documents to support Dream Chaser flight controller training
• Perform training activities including in-person courses, electronic-learning courses, and mission simulations
• Support the schedule and delivery of training materials to support training activities
• Create flight controller and sim instructor displays, procedures, and flight rules in support of Flight Operations development activities
• Support the testing of simulator capabilities to ensure readiness to support training objectives
• Support Dream Chaser flight controller certifications and evaluations
• Develop, manage, and maintain training records using a computerized learning management system

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 degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical) or related technical field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +5 years experience).
• Typically 8+ years of related experience in spacecraft systems, aerospace operations,  training operations, or related technical field.
• Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills; ability to articulate technical issues to diverse audiences including Flight Directors and Flight Control Team.
• Emerging expertise in Systems Engineering principles and practices
• Knowledge of requirements management, functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation.
• Knowledge of systems architecture, systems integration, and Verification and Validation (V&V) principles.
• Emerging ability to work and communicate with technical and specialty subject matter expert engineers to drive systems engineering products.
• Ability to analyze complex technical data and make sound decisions under time pressure in dynamic, real-time operations environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams with strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• High degree of rigor in executing procedures and documenting actions; commitment to operational excellence and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with training simulator modeling
• Familiarization with JIRA, Confluence, Python and Linux
• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystem operations principles such as flight dynamics or orbital mechanics
• Experience with command and control systems (InControl or similar) and procedure execution platforms (Epsilon3 or similar).
• Knowledge of flight rules, operational limits, go/no-go decision processes, and mission operations protocols.
• Experience interpreting real-time telemetry, commanding spacecraft systems, and troubleshooting anomalies in operational environments.
• Understanding of spacecraft subsystems and their interfaces across disciplines (power, thermal, propulsion, avionics, communications, mechanical).
• Solid understanding of spacecraft systems, including hardware and software subsystems and components.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering principles including requirements management, system integration, verification/validation, and systems development lifecycle.
• Solid understanding of project management methodologies including risk management and technical performance tracking.
• Experience in leading projects and mentoring junior engineers.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
• Embodiment of the seven Foundations of Flight Operations: Discipline, Competence, Confidence, Responsibility, Toughness, Teamwork, and Vigilance.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$130,636.00 - $179,644.00

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.

Elevate Your Career

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.