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Louisville, Kentucky, United States
Onsite
Not Available
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.
Lead and develop a team of direct and matrixed engineers, technicians, and specialists responsible for all aspects of spacecraft ground operations
Define and implement strategic direction for ground operations, including planning, investment, operations, compliance, and asset management
Develop and implement command media policies, processes, and lifecycle concepts of operations
Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement
Direct all aspects of spacecraft processing from receipt through launch, including:
Initial inspections and functional testing of spacecraft systems
Integration of payloads and scientific instruments
Propellant loading and pressurization operations
Final electrical and mechanical checkouts
Spacecraft configuration management for launch
Ensure Flight Support Equipment (FSE) readiness for campaign operations
Ensure proper handling, transportation, and logistics of high-value flight hardware
Oversee the integration of spacecraft with launch vehicles, including mating to adapters, encapsulation within payload fairings, and interface verification
Ensure proper validation of Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and compliance with launch provider requirements
Lead resolution of technical interface issues between spacecraft and launch vehicles
Coordinate with launch vehicle teams and range operations for successful integration
Implement and enforce hazardous operations procedures for propellant loading and other critical activities
Maintain clean room protocols to prevent contamination
Ensure compliance with range safety requirements and quality standards
Conduct risk assessments for non-standard operations
Document all processing activities and anomalies
Implement lessons learned into procedures and processes
Interface with launch vehicle teams, range operations, and mission/flight operations
Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders
Represent ground operations to external stakeholders including program customers and launch providers
Facilitate communication between all stakeholders during launch campaigns
Develop and optimize processing flows for efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness
Manage schedules and resources for processing activities
Track and report on key performance metrics to executive leadership
Lead change management initiatives related to technology implementation and process improvements
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
Typically 8+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft operations, launch integration, or related aerospace field
5+ years in a managerial or leadership role overseeing technical teams
The ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required.
Demonstrated knowledge of spacecraft systems, launch vehicle interfaces, and ground support equipment
Experience with spacecraft transportation logistics and handling of flight hardware
Knowledge of clean room protocols and contamination control
Experience with hazardous operations including propellant loading and pressurization and critical lifts
Experience with launch site operations at major ranges (Cape Canaveral, Vandenberg, etc.)
Familiarity with range safety requirements and launch site operations
Strong leadership, collaboration and team development skills
Excellent communication and presentation abilities
Ability to work effectively under pressure in time-critical situations
Will require travel to launch sites and test facilities (up to 25%)
May require extended hours during critical mission phases and launch campaigns
Work in controlled environments including clean rooms and hazardous processing facilities
Occasional exposure to outdoor elements at launch
Pay Range:
$145,561.00 - $200,145.25Your 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 Top Secret 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.