Principal Software Engineer - Ground Software Verified today
About the role
You will design, develop, and test software applications for space systems and ground infrastructure, writing clean, maintainable code that adheres to best practices and coding standards. You will architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements, collaborate with team members to understand project needs, and contribute to innovative software solutions.
Key responsibilities:
- Design and architect complex software systems for space technologies
- Develop and test applications using version control systems such as Git
- Participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and adherence to development standards
- Troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues in a timely manner
- Document software configurations, processes, and procedures
- Conduct unit tests and independently contribute to design and development
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers
- Stay current with industry trends in software development and space technologies
Minimum qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree; Master's degree plus 10 years experience acceptable)
- 12+ years of related software development experience
- Extensive expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles
- Ability to design, architect, implement, and test complex software systems
- Expert understanding of software engineering processes, advanced algorithmic knowledge, domain-specific design patterns, performance tuning, and system scalability
- Mastery in writing scalable, optimized code and knowledge of best practices including secure coding and system architecture principles
- Experience with software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban
- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance (U.S. citizenship required)
Preferred qualifications
- Advanced degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
- Extensive experience with kernel-level programming
- Proficiency in Python, C++, Java and their ecosystems
- In-depth knowledge of scripting languages and automation tools
- Exceptional analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail
- Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale software projects from inception to completion
- Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
- Experience with performance profiling and debugging complex systems
- Experience with collaborative tools (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket)
- Ability to write and maintain technical documentation
- Familiarity with SysML/UML to create software designs
- Experience utilizing and setting up static analysis tools
Compensation
Base salary: $184,628.00 - $253,884.50 (determined on a case-by-case basis based on knowledge, skills, education, experience, and market competitiveness)
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%; life insurance; 3 weeks paid time off; and more.
About 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 that safeguard the nation, protect space-based assets, and enable space exploration.