Director - Integrated Vehicle Test Engineering and Operations

Sierra Space Careers:

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

Sierra Space 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.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

The Director of Integrated Spacecraft Test Engineering leads our Integrated Vehicle Test Group, providing strategic leadership and technical expertise for the comprehensive development, integration, testing, and validation of spacecraft systems throughout the entire product lifecycle. This senior leadership role is responsible for establishing and executing a unified approach to spacecraft testing across all development phases, ensuring operational excellence and program success through cross-functional collaboration and rigorous validation processes.

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.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Direct the development and execution of the organization's integrated spacecraft test strategy aligned with business objectives and program requirements
• Establish and maintain a full program lifecycle concept of operations for integrated vehicle testing
• Build and Lead a multi-disciplinary department that unifies vehicle testing across all development phases
• Develop specialized expertise in integrated vehicle testing methodologies across the organization
• Foster a collaborative environment that maximizes knowledge sharing and problem-solving

Technical Program Management

• Develop and release baseline program test plans with complete engineering definitions in coordination with Systems Engineering teams
• Coordinate continuously with Systems Engineering and Program teams to evaluate and plan requirements and test events
• Ensure all integrated test efforts align with program schedules and requirements
• Identify integration and test risks, assess mitigation strategies, and provide independent recommendations to stakeholders
• Facilitate escalation and communication of data driven risk and mitigation options with respect to cost, schedule and technical. Facilitate decision path in response to program challenges, or technical issues.
• Oversee system-level integration of subsystems and components (mechanical, electrical, software)

Test Infrastructure & Equipment

• Identify demand for Flight Support Equipment needed to execute full program lifecycle test campaigns (EGSE, MGSE, STE)
• Provide lab level facilities and labor resources for early hardware/software product development and integration
• Identify demand for R&D level test equipment and cabling in development phase of hardware and software integration

Test Execution & Validation

• Manage verification/validation and environmental test campaigns (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC, etc.)
• Develop and release execution level products for test events including procedures, ground software scripts, and special test equipment
• Deploy certified personnel for lab level, subsystem, and integrated system powered-on testing
• Lead test anomaly and troubleshooting efforts, ensuring root cause identification and appropriate corrective actions
• Support evaluation of readiness, including Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), integration milestones, and major program reviews

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Maintain continuous coordination with Production, Ground Operations, and Program teams for performance to plan (cost and schedule)
• Facilitate subsystem and system level hardware/software development, integration, test, and troubleshooting
• Develop and maintain business alignment to Command Media and Product Realization relative to Integration and Test function
• Communicate complex technical topics to senior decision-makers with varying technical backgrounds through clear briefings and written reports

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or related field) required; Master's degree preferred
• 12+ years of experience with spacecraft systems engineering, integration, and testing
• 5+ years of leadership experience in spacecraft test engineering or related field
• Demonstrated experience as a Lead Systems Engineer, Integration & Test Manager, or equivalent role on spacecraft or satellite programs

Technical Knowledge

• Comprehensive knowledge of spacecraft systems design, development, assembly, integration, and testing
• Experience with all phases of the satellite mission lifecycle, from concept development through launch and landing operations
• Strong understanding of integration flows, test sequencing, and verification methodologies
• Expertise in environmental test planning and execution (TVAC, vibration, acoustic, EMI/EMC, shock, etc)
• Familiarity with industry standards and best practices for spacecraft integration and environmental testing

Leadership & Professional Skills

• Proven ability to lead large, cross-functional technical teams in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building, and problem-solving skills
• Strong program management capabilities with experience managing complex technical projects
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to executive leadership
• Experience with budget planning, resource allocation, and personnel development

Security Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance appropriate to the position
• Willingness to travel up to 25% as required to support program needs during environmental test and launch campaigns

Working Environment

• Primary work location – Louisville, CO with some on person support in Centennial, CO
• May require occasional extended hours to support critical test operations
• Fast-paced environment requiring adaptability and decisive leadership during critical test phases

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$177,838.00 - $244,526.50

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 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.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please .