Test Specialist III

About The Role

The Test Specialist Level 3 works independently on complex test stand operations, fabrication activities, and hardware testing. This role specializes in test stand builds across diverse program types and work centers, providing technical expertise and training to site personnel. This specialist drives resolution of hardware issues, evaluates non-conforming products, and implements corrective actions while maintaining design intent, safety, and schedule.

This position represents a fully independent technical contributor who mentors junior staff and contributes to continuous improvement initiatives. The Test Specialist role specializes in complex test stand builds, encompassing fabrication, maintenance, operation, and safety protocols for both personnel and hardware across a wide array of program types and work centers. In this capacity, the specialist sets up and operates critical fabrication and test equipment while training site personnel on proper procedures and best practices.

A core aspect of this role involves driving resolution of hardware issues while maintaining design intent, hardware safety, and project schedules. The specialist evaluates non-conforming products, identifies root causes, and implements effective corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Additionally, the position requires conducting process development experiments and analyzing results to support design and process validation efforts. This role leads product transitions from development phase to production, ensuring smooth handoffs and knowledge transfer.

The role includes identifying, developing, and implementing improvement opportunities that enhance yield, performance, and cost-effectiveness across operations. The specialist also develops and executes comprehensive maintenance strategies for test and fabrication equipment to ensure optimal performance and availability. As a senior technical contributor, the Test Specialist Level 3 mentors and trains junior personnel, actively contributing to skill development and technical capability building across the team.

About You

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.

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate required.
• Typically 10+ years of professional experience in a manufacturing or test environment.
• Comprehensive understanding of fabrication processes and principles.
• Proven ability to design, build, and maintain shop aids, tools, and support materials for build/configuration operations.
• Strong knowledge of spaceflight hardware and controls; expert-level familiarity with company-specific systems.
• Demonstrated ability to independently identify, troubleshoot, and resolve fabrication or Test Operations issues.
• Proven track record of leading process improvement initiatives.
• Ability to independently manage Test Articles during development and production phases.
• Exceptional attention to detail with proven ability to develop and improve documented procedures and safety protocols.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to effectively train and mentor others.

Compensation

Pay Range: $112,694.00 - $154,975.25

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. 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

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.

EEO Statement

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.