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Principal Ground Software Engineer - Lead (Clearance Required)

Sierra Space
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Colorado, Centennial
Jun 27, 2025
Sierra Space Careers: Dare to Dream

We honor those that are not afraid to dream big dreams, those that tenaciously chase their dreams even when others say it cannot be done, those that achieve big dreams and change everything. Those are Dreams Worth Chasing.

At Sierra Space we envision a future where humanity lives and works in space, on moons, and on distant planets. Our mission isn't restricted to the few, instead we see a future where all people can choose to live, work, discover and explore beyond our planet. Our company is building a platform in space to benefit life on Earth and together we will alter the course of humanity.

We have a bold mission. We are a bold company. 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.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, integrate, and test ground software for space systems and technologies.

  • Coordinate software development for both internal teams and a vendor to ensure alignment on project goals.

  • Ensure that vendor software development practices align with industry standards and project requirements.

  • Integrate internally and vendor developed code into government provided infrastructure.

  • Write clean, maintainable code following best practices and coding standards.

  • Architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements.

  • Collaborate with team members to understand project requirements and contribute to the development of software solutions.

  • Utilize version control systems such as Git to manage code changes and collaborate with team members.

  • Participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and adherence to development standards.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues in a timely manner.

  • Document software configurations, processes, and procedures for future reference.

  • Stay current with industry trends and advancements in software development and space technologies.

  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers.

About You

Our mission is driven by the unwavering passion to push the boundaries of what is possible. We seek those who Dare to Dream - to envision the extraordinary and pursue it relentlessly - to join us on this transformational journey.

We're looking for dreamers who align with our values, vision and audacious 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 master's +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 with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with classified enterprise ground systems

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

  • 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.

  • Exceptional analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail.

  • 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 strategic thinking and decision-making skills.

  • Strong analytical skills, performance profiling, and debugging complex systems.

  • Ability to write and maintain technical documentation.

  • Familiarity with SysML/UML to create software designs.

  • Experience utilizing and setting up static analysis tools.

Compensation

Pay Range:

$180,125 - $247,690

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.

Physical/Mental/Emotional Requirements:

  • Frequently walk, sit, stand, climb stairs and steps

  • Frequently repeat same hand, arm, and finger motion many times to include finger and hand dexterity

  • Rarely lifting or carrying up to 20 lbs.

Working Conditions:

  • Rarely exposed to outdoor elements (high/low temperatures, sun, rain/snow, etc.)

  • Rarely exposed to fumes or hazardous chemicals/materials

  • Rarely exposed to loud noises

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 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.

Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 8%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

At Sierra Space we are at the very doorstep of unlocking the future and the work in front of us is hard, but it is truly important and meaningful. Achieving our mission requires dedication, relentless pursuit of a dream and an unwavering passion for pushing the boundaries to accomplish what others might believe to be impossible. We seek those who too, Dare to Dream and will join us in a pursuit to achieve the extraordinary.

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 Corporationis 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 withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.

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