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Dream Chaser Flight Controller - Systems Engineer II Verified today

Sierra Space · Louisville, CO · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
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About the Role

The Spacecraft Systems Flight Controller serves as the real-time systems engineer responsible for Dream Chaser spacecraft subsystem operations during mission operations. You will operate from the Taylor Mission Control Center in Louisville, CO, monitoring spacecraft telemetry, executing procedures, commanding spacecraft systems, and providing real-time technical decisions to ensure spacecraft health and mission success.

You will represent your assigned console discipline (EPS, ECLS, PROP, INCO, AVIONICS, or MECH) within the integrated Flight Control Team, working alongside other console positions under the direction of the Flight Director.

Key Responsibilities

  • Monitor real-time telemetry, analyze system performance, troubleshoot anomalies, and execute nominal and contingency procedures
  • Command spacecraft subsystems via Epsilon3 and InControl systems
  • Provide clear communication on Flight Control Team voice loops and coordinate with other console positions on integrated system issues
  • Support pre-mission planning by reviewing flight plans and developing console products
  • Participate in simulations to maintain proficiency and certification
  • Provide go/no-go recommendations to the Flight Director
  • Interface with Engineering Support Room (ESR) Responsible Engineers for technical troubleshooting
  • Develop procedures, flight rules, and display pages
  • Investigate subsystem anomalies and develop corrective actions
  • Maintain 24/7 mission coverage through rotating 9-hour shifts

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor degree in Engineering (Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical, Systems) or related technical field, or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree
  • Typically 2+ years of related experience in spacecraft systems, aerospace operations, aerospace test operations, or related technical field
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering principles including requirements management, system integration, verification/validation, and systems development lifecycle
  • Knowledge of spacecraft subsystem operations principles relevant to assigned console discipline (power, thermal, propulsion, communications, avionics, or mechanical systems)
  • Ability to analyze complex technical data and make sound decisions under time pressure in dynamic, real-time operations environments
  • Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills; ability to articulate technical issues to diverse audiences including Flight Director and Flight Control Team
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams with strong interpersonal and collaboration skills
  • High degree of rigor in executing procedures and documenting actions; commitment to operational excellence and attention to detail
  • Ability to work rotating 9-hour shifts for 24/7 mission coverage; on-site presence at Louisville, CO required during missions
  • Ability to pass and maintain FAA medical screening requirements via certified Aviation Medical Examiner

Preferred Qualifications

  • Direct experience with spacecraft subsystems: EPS (solar arrays, battery systems, power distribution, electrical protection), ECLS (thermal control systems, atmosphere management, fluid systems), PROP (propulsion systems, RCS operations, propellant management), INCO (command and data handling, communications systems, onboard software), AVIONICS (GN&C systems, flight computers, sensors, actuators), or MECH (structures, mechanisms, deployment systems, actuation systems)
  • Previous experience as a flight controller, mission controller, test conductor, or real-time operations role in space operations or aerospace test environments
  • Experience with command and control systems (InControl or similar) and procedure execution platforms (Epsilon3 or similar)
  • Experience interpreting real-time telemetry, commanding spacecraft systems, and troubleshooting anomalies in operational environments
  • Understanding of spacecraft subsystems and their interfaces across disciplines (power, thermal, propulsion, avionics, communications, mechanical)
  • Knowledge of flight rules, operational limits, go/no-go decision processes, and mission operations protocols
  • Experience developing operational procedures, console handbooks, flight rules, or training materials for mission operations
  • Understanding of project management methodologies including risk management and technical performance tracking
  • Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills with ability to extrapolate beyond known scenarios and make educated decisions with incomplete information
  • Demonstrated composure and sound judgment in high-stress situations; ability to adapt to fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous operational environments

Compensation

Pay Range: $94,090.00 to $129,394.75. 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.

Benefits

Sierra Space offers a generous benefit package including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, and 3 weeks paid time off.