Principal Material Science Engineer - Contamination Control Lead

Sierra Space Corporation$167K — $229K *
Aerospace & Defense
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent work experience; Master's degree with 10+ years of experience preferred.
  • 12+ years of related experience in contamination control or aerospace engineering.
  • Advanced knowledge in material sciences, chemistry, and/or physics.
  • Proven ability to apply advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Capability to contribute to innovative developments in contamination control.
  • Ability to solve complex technical problems using creativity and ingenuity.
  • Ability to work towards long-term goals with consultative direction.

Responsibilities

  • Lead contamination control projects and provide strategic direction.
  • Develop and implement enterprise-level contamination control requirements.
  • Create and maintain detailed contamination control plans and documentation.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional senior personnel to integrate solutions.
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers.
  • Represent the organization in high-level meetings and strategy sessions.
  • Drive innovation in contamination control processes and practices.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • 401(k) plan with a 150% match up to 6%.
  • Three weeks of paid time off.
  • Life insurance and additional benefits.
Full Job Description
About the RoleAs a Principal Contamination Control Engineer at Sierra Space, you will bring your extensive experience and advanced knowledge to lead significant projects and contribute to the development of new principles and concepts in aerospace contamination control. You will apply advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts to develop and implement innovative solutions. Working under consultative direction, you will drive projects towards predetermined long-range goals and objectives, ensuring technical excellence and strategic alignment.

In this role, you will leverage knowledge in material sciences, chemistry, and physics to lead enterprise- and program-level contamination control requirements, development, analysis, and application on a variety of aerospace systems, including satellites, optics, solar arrays, propulsion, fluid systems, mechanisms, and various payloads. You will be responsible for developing and maintaining company and program contamination control plans and applying advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts to provide innovative solutions and rigorous analyses for complex technical challenges, while developing and documenting detailed technical data, reports, and presentations to support critical engineering projects and strategic decision-making. You will have considerable autonomy in determining technical approaches under general direction. You will contribute to the development of new processes in contamination control, enhancing the organization's technical capabilities, and lead projects or significant aspects of programs to ensure successful development and implementation of innovative solutions. Collaborating with senior personnel across disciplines, you will integrate contamination control solutions into broader engineering projects and programs. Representing the organization as a technical expert, you will participate in high-level meetings, contracts, and strategic discussions both within and outside of Sierra Space. Additionally, you will mentor and provide technical leadership to other engineers, fostering professional development and enhancing team effectiveness. You will also participate in and lead technical reviews, strategy sessions, and innovation initiatives, driving the advancement of contamination control within the organization.

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 +10 yrs experience).
  • Typically 12+ years of related experience.
  • Advanced knowledge in material sciences, chemistry, and/or physics.
  • Ability to apply increasing degrees of advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Capability to contribute to the development of new principles and concepts.
  • Ability to provide solutions to unusually complex technical problems which require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity.
  • Ability to work under consultative direction towards predetermined long-range goals and objectives.
  • Ability to obtain/maintain Top Secret or higher U.S. Security Clearance is required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with material characterization and test techniques such as GC/MS, FTIR, wet chemistry, and microscopy such as optical and SEM.
  • Experience with surface cleanliness, precision cleaning processes, and particulate, molecular, and outgassing test methods (such as ASTM E595, ASTM E1559, ISO 14952, ASTM E1216, ASTM E1235, IEST-STD-CC1246, etc.)
  • Experience in cleanrooms and airborne contamination control (such as ISO 14644, etc.)
  • Experience with developing and implementing contamination control requirements and programs (ref. ASTM E1548, etc.)
  • Experience with satellites, launch vehicle, propulsion and other fluid systems, and optical contamination control processes
  • Familiarity with transport, deposition, and thermal analysis for conducting contamination modeling with software tools such as MATLAB, ANSYS, COMSOL, Thermal Desktop, etc.
  • Familiarity with statistical analysis
  • Familiarity with failure analysis techniques and root cause investigation
  • Familiarity with internal and supplier process auditing
  • Familiarity with training contamination control best practices
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex tasks and priorities effectively.
  • Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn and apply new concepts and methodologies.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in material sciences and aerospace engineering.
  • Teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
  • Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
  • Proven track record of successful leadership and ownership of technical projects from concept through completion.
  • Experience in communicating technical information to external stakeholders such as suppliers and partners.
  • Familiarity with regulatory standards and compliance requirements in aerospace materials.
  • Experience in representing the organization to external stakeholders such as suppliers, partners, and industry bodies.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$167,096.00 - $229,757.00

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.

About Sierra Space Corporation

Sierra Space Corporation Careers

Joining Sierra Space Corporation presents an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a leading team of professionals dedicated to pioneering innovations in the aerospace sector. As one of the most forward-thinking companies in space technology, Sierra Space Corporation offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a spectrum of skills and experiences.

Explore Career Opportunities

Sierra Space Corporation is actively hiring, seeking individuals who are passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to groundbreaking projects. With a commitment to diversity and leadership development, the company fosters an environment where all employees can thrive.

Professional Growth and Development

At Sierra Space Corporation, career growth is a cornerstone of their employment philosophy. Professionals at all levels are encouraged to engage in continuous learning, leadership training, and professional development workshops, ensuring that their career trajectory is always ascending.

Innovative Work Environment

Innovation is at the heart of Sierra Space Corporation. The team is tasked with developing advanced technologies that redefine possibilities in space exploration and satellite technology. Employees are encouraged to bring creative solutions and innovative thinking to the table every day.

Internship Programs

For students and recent graduates, Sierra Space Corporation offers robust internship programs that provide hands-on experience in aerospace technology and business operations. Internships are a gateway to full-time employment and a great way to build a resume while learning from seasoned professionals.

Benefits and Company Culture

Sierra Space Corporation is renowned for its inclusive culture and comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and financial security of every team member. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as unique perks like flexible working conditions and family leave options.

Networking and Professional Connections

The company places a high value on networking, providing numerous opportunities for employees to connect with industry leaders and innovators. Through events, seminars, and collaborative projects, team members can build valuable relationships that enhance their careers and personal growth.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is more than just a policy at Sierra Space Corporation; it is an integral part of the company's identity. Inclusive hiring practices and diversity training ensure a workplace where everyone’s contributions are valued and where everyone has the chance to succeed.

Applying for a Position

To apply for a position at Sierra Space Corporation, prospective candidates should prepare their resumes to highlight relevant experience and skills. The interview process is designed to assess not only expertise but also a fit with the company’s culture and values. Job seekers can explore available positions and submit applications through the Sierra Space Corporation careers page.

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Join the Sierra Space Corporation Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. Sierra Space Corporation looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Sierra Space Corporation.

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