Systems Engineer III (Clearance Required)

Sierra Space Corporation$119K — $163K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of relevant experience or Master's + 3 years
  • Emerging expertise in Systems Engineering principles
  • Knowledge of requirements management and functional requirements allocation
  • Familiarity with systems architecture and verification principles
  • Active Secret U.S. Security Clearance

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement advanced system solutions in collaboration with technical teams
  • Manage and trace system requirements through the development lifecycle
  • Oversee system integration and verification activities for functionality and performance
  • Support milestone reviews by creating necessary documentation and deliverables
  • Identify and mitigate technical risks while improving processes
  • Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure project success

Benefits

  • Career development opportunities including leading small teams
  • Engagement with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts
  • Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
  • Work on cutting-edge technologies related to space systems
  • A collaborative environment fostering innovation and problem-solving
Full Job Description
About the Role
The Systems Engineer III contributes to the development and implementation of advanced system solutions by providing alignment, connection and direction to the technical team throughout the product development lifecycle. The Systems Engineer III represents the viewpoint of the integrated whole during system development and works to glue segments and subsystems together via top-down decomposition of stakeholder requirements, traceability through development artifacts, and bottom-up validation and verification of the system. They help to shepherd the team through technical development milestones, track performance measures and identify technical risks to arrive at a compliant and cohesive system solution. The Systems Engineer III is an emerging leader in Systems Engineering principles and is proficient in the majority of systems engineering skills including requirements management, system architecture development, concept of operation definition, system integration and system verification. The Systems Engineer III may lead small teams to execute systems engineering scope.

In this role, you will specify, architect, and integrate complex system solutions while collaborating with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts to understand project requirements and objectives. You will derive, decompose, allocate, trace, and manage system requirements and architectures, as well as define and document system concepts of operation. Supporting development milestone reviews by creating artifacts and deliverables will be a key responsibility, alongside overseeing system integration and verification activities to ensure system functionality and performance. You will identify and manage technical risks, develop mitigation strategies, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying areas for enhancement. Adhering to established engineering processes and standards will be essential, and you will communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders to ensure project alignment and successful execution.

About You

Ground Systems:
  • Design and maintain ground system architectures including mission operations centers, ground data systems, ground communication networks, and interfaces with launch site infrastructure and tracking stations
  • Develop ground software and tools for vehicle monitoring, telemetry processing, command & control, and support pre-launch checkout, mission simulations, and ground rehearsals
  • Coordinate ground segment integration with flight systems and ensure end-to-end operational readiness
  • Varying scope by level:
    • SE II focuses on subsystem-level tasks and test support;
    • SE III owns segment integration and anomaly resolution;
    • Sr SE defines architecture and leads cross-functional ground system initiatives


Requirements & Verifications:
  • Derive, decompose, and manage technical requirements from stakeholder needs through system, subsystem, and component levels; manage requirements baseline changes and impact assessments across the product lifecycle
  • Develop verification and validation strategies including analysis, inspection, demonstration, and test methods; author verification procedures, test plans, and acceptance criteria aligned to requirements traceability
  • Lead requirements reviews, trade studies, and technical audits to ensure completeness, consistency, and compliance
  • Varying scope by level:
    • SE II executes verification activities and documents results;
    • SE III leads V&V planning and closure;
    • Sr SE owns requirements architecture and approval authority for complex changes


Space Vehicle Integration:
  • Plan and execute hardware and software integration activities for spacecraft buses, payloads, and subsystems; coordinate interface control documents (ICDs) and manage technical interfaces across vehicle elements
  • Support integration and test campaigns including functional checkout, environmental testing, and system-level qualification; resolve integration anomalies and troubleshooting across mechanical, electrical, thermal, and software domains
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, and mission assurance teams to ensure flight readiness
  • Varying scope by level:
    • SE II supports hands-on integration tasks and test readiness;
    • SE III leads integration planning and anomaly resolution;
    • Sr SE defines integration strategy and owns vehicle-level technical risk


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +3 yrs experience).
  • Typically 5+ years of related experience (or Masters + 3 years of experience).
  • Emerging expertise in Systems Engineering principles and practices, including a thorough understanding of the systems development lifecycle.
  • 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.
  • An active Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Robust experience with Requirements Management and Model Based Systems Engineering tools and frameworks, such as DOORS, CAMEO EA, Rhapsody, Matlab, and SysML.
  • Solid understanding of spacecraft systems, including hardware and software subsystems and components.
  • Solid understanding of project management methodologies including risk management and technical performance tracking.
  • Solid understanding of technical baseline and configuration management.
  • Experience in leading projects and mentoring junior engineers.
  • Experience or certification in INCOSE standards.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.


Compensation:

Pay Range:
$119,064.00 - $163,713.00

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.

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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