Technical Fellow, Software Engineering (Clearance Required)

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 RoleThe Technical Fellow will provide advanced technical leadership and guidance within a focused technical field, ensuring successful technical execution and innovation across multiple programs. Develop and maintain technical road maps, which depict how internal research and development programs dovetail into program plans for significant game changing upgrades and enhancements. This role involves overseeing applied research or advanced engineering in the development of new products, materials, or processes, solving complex technical problems, and driving technical advancements. The Technical Fellow will act as a technical advisor, providing expert guidance and recommendations on complex engineering projects, ensuring technical accuracy and feasibility. This position requires industry-leading subject matter expertise and the ability to shape the technical direction for Sierra Space.
In this role, you will develop and maintain technical roadmaps that depict how internal research and development programs align with program plans for significant game-changing upgrades and enhancements. You will oversee applied research or advanced engineering in the development of new products, materials, or processes, while directing and coordinating activities necessary to complete major projects requiring a wide variety of technical expertise. Leading program Tiger Teams, you will resolve major issues in your specific area of expertise and consult with senior management and various departments on advanced technical challenges. Working across all programs, you will act as an advisor in your field of focus and take responsibility for solving the most complex technical problems spanning multiple programs. You will shape the technical direction for Sierra Space, innovate breakthrough technologies, and drive alignment between technical strategies and business objectives, making an impact on the high-tech industry at large. As a thought leader, you will provide technical vision to Sierra Space and the broader industry, guiding groundbreaking projects and fostering a culture of excellence within teams. Mentoring and advising other engineers, you will contribute to the growth of the next generation of technical leadership while collaborating with other thought leaders to form a vibrant community of diverse experts. Sharing insights, staying at the cutting edge of technology, and presenting to the ELT biennially to communicate achievements, technical direction, and business alignment will be key responsibilities. You will be evaluated annually through Sierra Space’s standard performance management process and represent Sierra Space at industry conferences, technical forums, and professional gatherings. Additionally, you will contribute to the development of technical strategies and roadmaps to support long-term organizational objectives.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 +18 yrs experience).
• Typically requires 20+ years of related experience.
• Advanced degree in a related field (preferred). An active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required
• Industry-leading subject matter expert within a focused technical field (generally single discipline) with recognized industry-wide technical contributions. May include publications, patent holder, selection for advisory board or review committee.
• Experience acting as a technical advisor, providing expert guidance and recommendations on complex engineering projects, ensuring technical accuracy and feasibility.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and drive technical advancements in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment; inventing new capability.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing technical strategies that align with organizational goals and drive long-term success.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's or Ph.D. in engineering, aerospace, or a related discipline, providing a deeper understanding of complex technical concepts and advanced problem-solving skills.
• Proven background delivering complex defense software for space applications.
• Extensive experience in the aerospace industry or a closely related field, with a proven track record of successful project execution and technical leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to drive innovation within engineering practices, staying current with emerging technologies, and implementing cutting-edge solutions to enhance program performance and efficiency.
• Exceptional leadership abilities with a proven capacity to influence, inspire, and drive change within engineering teams and across the organization. Ability to mentor and develop junior engineers.
• Solid experience in program management, including planning, execution, and oversight of large-scale engineering projects. Ability to manage resources, timelines, and budgets effectively.
• Strong strategic planning skills, with the ability to develop and implement long-term technical strategies and roadmaps that align with organizational objectives.
• Proven ability to work effectively with executive-level management, providing clear and concise technical insights and recommendations. Experience presenting complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience managing relationships with external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies. Ability to represent the company in technical discussions and negotiations.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across different functions within the organization, including operations, finance, and business development, to achieve common goals.
• A strong commitment to continuous improvement, with a proactive approach to identifying and implementing process enhancements and best practices within the engineering function.
• A history of technical publications or patents that demonstrate thought leadership and contributions to the field of engineering.
• Relevant professional certifications, such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, Project Management Professional (PMP), or certifications in specific technical areas relevant to the role.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$265,730.00 - $365,378.00

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.

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. 

 
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.