Sr Manager, Ground Operations

About The Role

We are seeking an experienced Senior Manager of Ground Operations, to lead our spacecraft processing activities related to transportation, handling, prelaunch operations, and launch vehicle integration.

The ideal candidate will drive operational excellence through effective leadership of ground operations teams, implementation of process improvements, and strategic alignment with mission objectives. This role requires a seasoned professional who can bridge the critical gap between spacecraft manufacturing and successful launch, ensuring spacecraft safely and efficiently transition from production to orbit.

About You

The 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.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Team Management
  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.

• Pre-Launch Processing
  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

• Launch Vehicle Integration
  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

• Safety & Quality Assurance
  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

• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  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

• Operational Excellence
  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

Minimum Qualifications

• 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
• 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
• 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

Working Conditions

• 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

Compensation

Pay Range: $151,141.00 - $207,841.00

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

To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

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.

Our Benefits

• 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

We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.