Sr Software Engineer (contractor)

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth. Our 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.

About the Role

The Sr. Software Engineer role involves designing, developing, and testing software applications for space systems and technologies. This advanced position requires deep expertise in multiple programming languages, an advanced understanding of software development principles, and the ability to design, architect, and implement complex software systems.

• Write clean, maintainable code and collaborate with team members to understand project requirements.
• Contribute to the development of innovative software solutions for space systems and technologies.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and make high-level design decisions that significantly impact program cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements.
• Utilize version control systems such as Git to manage code changes and work collaboratively 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.

Requirements

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.

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +6 years experience).
• Typically 8+ years of related experience.
• Deep expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles.
• Ability to design, architect, and implement complex software systems.
• Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban.
• Strong leadership skills to lead a team of engineers.
• Ability to make high-level design decisions that will have significant impacts on program cost, schedule, and technical performance.

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with kernel-level programming.
• Proficiency in programming languages (Python, C++, Java) and their ecosystems.
• 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.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, and efficient with collaborative tools (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket) and development ceremonies (daily standup, backlog grooming, work planning, task estimation, retrospectives, etc.).
• Ability to write and maintain technical documentation.
• Experience with continuous integration and automated test.
• Knowledge of and experience implementing Software Design Patterns.
• Familiarity with SysML/UML to create software designs.
• Experience utilizing and setting up static analysis tools.

Benefits

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.