Sr Software Engineer

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Test Engineer to join our growing team as the Deputy Test Lead. Our team is responsible for verifying the flight software for the Dream Chaser Space Plane poised to launch in 2024! As Deputy Test Lead you will be directly responsible for designing, implementing, and executing test plans to identify issues, bugs, and defects before product release and manage test tasks and milestones across multiple functional areas. The products you verify will not only go to space, but they will also be a part of shaping the future of Spaceflight for humanity. As a member of the larger, Centralized Software and Artificial Intelligence organization you will also have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects and products across the Sierra Space Enterprise along with an incredible community of software professionals. We are truly One Team, with One Dream. Come make history with us!

Sierra Space-based in Louisville, CO with operations in Madison, WI, Durham, NC, Huntsville, AL, Houston, TX, and Kennedy Space Center, FL-designs and manufactures the Dream Chaser spaceplane and other advanced spacecraft, commercial space destinations, satellites, propulsion and environmental systems, spacecraft subsystems and components for the U.S. government (including NASA), commercial customers, and international organizations. Learn more about Sierra Space

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a co-technical lead and/or co-product owner with the Test Lead.

• Lead the creation and execution of detailed, comprehensive, and well-structured test plans and test cases.

• Maintain weekly schedule inputs, track metrics and velocity, and remove obstacles to achieve milestones on-time and under budget.

• Direct the development of test descriptions and peer reviews.

• Direct the development and review of software code, specifically automated Python test scripts to be leveraged in the Continuous Integration environment.

• Prioritize and plan testing activities in a fast-paced environment.

• Review and analyze software design descriptions, ICDs, and requirements in coordination with development teams.

• Manage software test risks, opportunities, cost, and schedule.

• Perform software test trade studies such as test management tools, Continuous Integration Test techniques and methodologies, software simulation platforms, etc.

• Monitor and implement continuous team improvements.

• Hold planning meetings and technical meetings as required.

• Oversee and execute developmental tests and formal verification tests.

• Manage (and execute) test result analysis, test report generation, and issue definitions/investigations/closures.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Program Management, Software Development, Flight Operations, etc.) to ensure quality throughout the software development lifecycle.

• Coordinate and define test roles and responsibilities within the program.

• Manage the defect lifecycle from discovery to resolution, working with developers to reproduce issues and verify fixes.

• Implement automated testing tools and frameworks to optimize the testing and verification processes.

• Oversee and contribute towards the development, peer review, and management of test plans, test harnesses, test cases, test scripts, test procedures, and test reports for various subsystems.

• Manage and coordinate expectations across functional teams.

• Mentor and support junior testers to help them grow professionally.

• Conduct root cause analysis on defects and recommend improvements to prevent recurrence.

• Report bugs and errors to development teams and provide insightful feedback to assist in the decision-making process.

• Liaise with internal stakeholders when necessary to clarify requirements or discuss testing strategies.

• Plan team execution of software release tests, acceptance tests, and qualification tests.

• Collect and report technical, schedule, and cost metrics.

• Ensure that software standards are met and that all test artifacts adhere to Sierra Space standards.

• Stay up to date with new testing tools and strategies, incorporating best practices into the testing cycle.

Must-haves:

• Bachelor's of Science degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or other related discipline and typically 10 or more years of relevant experience

• Higher education may substitute for relevant experience

• Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of required education

• Thorough understanding of Computer Aided Engineering tools

• Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices

• Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams

Preferred:

• Demonstrated technical leadership (e.g. tech lead, product owner or similar).

• Familiarity with principles, tools and processes of software testing.

• Demonstrated software test experience

• Practical experience developing, testing, troubleshooting and debugging software.

• Proficient in Python test script development, review, and execution.

• Understanding of industry standard software languages such as C, C++, and Python

• Familiarity with simulation software, discrete time simulation or software models.

• Ability to rapidly work with minimal supervision on projects involving both small and large engineering teams

• Strong knowledge of software development methodologies, tools, and best practices.

• Experience with spacecraft flight software.

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

• Thorough understanding and experience spanning the full software development lifecycle

• Practical experience utilizing CI/CD tools and practices as well as automated build and test

• Experience working in a Linux-based development environment.

• Familiarity with common object-oriented software design patterns.

• Practical experience utilizing software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop test methods

• Knowledge or experience with Agile software development methodologies such as Scrum and Kanban

• Desire to work with, learn from, and mentor others

• Familiarity with fault-tolerant software design and safety-critical systems.

• Proficient with data structures

• The ability to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance may be required. Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearance

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.

Physical/Mental/Emotional Requirements:

• Frequently walk, sit, stand, climb stairs and steps

• Frequently repeat same hand, arm, and finger motion many times to include finger and hand dexterity

• Rarely lifting or carrying up to 20 lbs.

Working Conditions:

• Rarely exposed to outdoor elements (high/low temperatures, sun, rain/snow, etc.)

• Rarely exposed to fumes or hazardous chemicals/materials

• Rarely exposed to loud noises

Employee Value Proposition:

At Sierra Space, we offer a unique opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking mission that is transforming the future of space exploration. As a member of our rapidly expanding Software and Artificial Intelligence organization, you will have the chance to work alongside top talent in the industry, collaborate on cutting-edge projects, and contribute to shaping the future of space technology. We provide a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation, encourages professional growth, and rewards excellence. Join us in our mission to commercialize Low Earth Orbit and provide cost-effective access to space for all industries, making a meaningful impact on humanity's journey to the stars.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

At Sierra Space we deliver customer-focused technology and best-of-breed integrations in the aerospace and defense sectors. Sierra Space has been honored as one of the most innovative U.S. companies in space, a Tier One Superior Supplier for the U.S. Air Force, and as one of America's fastest-growing companies. Learn more about Sierra Space

With 30+ years of proven spaceflight heritage, Sierra Space has provided more than 4,000 space systems, subsystems and components to customers worldwide, and participated in more than 500 missions to space, including to Mars. The company has technology in production and in development to enable space habitats for short- and long-duration space travel, a fleet of Dream Chaser spaceplanes, and the first free-flying commercial space station. Please visit www.sierraspace.com to learn more about Sierra Space, its business areas, capabilities, programs, products and services.

Estimated Starting Salary Range:

$138,634.92 - $207,952.37

Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

Sierra Space offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 8%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

At Sierra Space, our mission is to dream, innovate, inspire and empower the next generation to transform humanity through technology and imagination. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we welcome our employees to bring their whole selves to their work. Sierra Space is committed to fostering an inclusive, accepting, and diverse environment free of discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Contributions to Sierra Space come in many shapes and styles, and we believe diversity in our workforce fosters new and greater ways to dream, innovate, and inspire.