Systems Engineer III - Mission Systems

Job Overview We are looking for a Systems Engineer III – Mission Systems to support spacecraft IT systems and the ground segment. The role is centered around working on requirements, verification and certification of mission control centers, IT systems, infrastructure, and networking. The candidate will also train to become a certified flight controller (GC – Ground Control) and will play an active role during the upcoming first flight of the Dream Chaser spacecraft. Key Responsibilities Design, integrate, test, and maintain Mission IT systems, infrastructure, and networks. Develop and certify Mission Systems, including requirement verification and validation. Create test plans, conduct testing, and provide user training and support. Develop documentation for design, operations, and training. Refine operational concepts and processes. Support real‑time missions and pre‑mission simulations. Provide flight operations end‑user support. Perform general systems engineering and integration tasks. Work closely with NASA during all mission preparation and planning. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree in Systems Engineering or a related discipline and typically five or more years of relevant experience (relevant experience may count toward the degree requirement). Relevant advanced degree may count toward required years of experience. Experience with VMware, Docker, Python, RF, Cisco switches, and Palo Alto Firewalls. Experience with command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA). Proficient with Linux and Windows operating systems. Experience in IT system and network administration, data management, software configuration, and real‑time mission support. Practical knowledge of engineering principles and practices. Experience working in multi‑disciplinary design and development teams. Knowledge of requirements management, functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation; systems design, systems integration, technical risk identification and management strategies, and Verification and Validation (V&V) principles. Must pass NASA background check and maintain NASA clearance. Preferred Qualifications Experience in real‑time operations, spacecraft ground systems, and control center operations. Experience managing IT applications, systems, and networking. Experience with requirements management and system modelling tools such as DOORS, Rhapsody, NoMagic, MATLAB. Practical knowledge of industry standard mechanical design principles, including requirements management, Model Based System Engineering (MBSE). Knowledge of ground‑to‑space communication systems and control center development. Proficiency in Jira and Confluence. Experience or certification in INCOSE standards. Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry. Ability to administer baseline definition and maturation in a complex development setting, including the use of high‑impact trade studies and other measures. Exposure to establishing and tracking key Technical Performance Measurements (TPM). Compensation: Pay Range: $119,064.00 – $163,713.00. Location: Louisville, Kentucky. Required: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret, or higher, U.S. Security Clearance. We offer a generous benefits package: medical, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%; life insurance; 3 weeks paid time off; and more. Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr