Software Test Engineer III (Contractor) Verified today

Sierra Space · Centennial, CO · Production · first seen 2026-07-16

About the Role

As a Software Test Engineer III, you will lead testing processes, design comprehensive test plans, develop testing strategies, and architect testing frameworks for large and complex aerospace software projects.

Your key responsibilities include:

  • Lead the development and execution of comprehensive test plans, test cases, and test procedures to verify functionality, performance, and reliability of aerospace software systems used in space vehicles
  • Lead development and review of automated test scripts for Continuous Integration environments, collaborating with software developers to understand requirements and design effective test strategies
  • Oversee the defect lifecycle from discovery to resolution, working with developers to reproduce issues and verify fixes
  • Review and analyze software design descriptions, ICDs, and requirements in coordination with software development teams
  • Coordinate testing activities, ensure thorough coverage of all requirements, and perform defect triage
  • Support the definition of software test risks and opportunities while considering cost and schedule impacts
  • Lead continuous improvement of testing processes and methodologies
  • Implement automated testing tools and frameworks to optimize testing and verification processes
  • Report bugs and errors to development teams and provide insightful feedback for decision-making
  • Perform regression testing to ensure new software updates do not negatively impact existing functionality
  • Maintain and update test documentation including test plans, test cases, and test reports
  • Participate in code reviews to provide feedback on software quality and testability
  • Design and architect complex software test systems to meet project requirements
  • Mentor and guide junior test engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence
  • Interact with cross-functional teams including software development, systems engineering, and quality assurance to ensure compliance with technical specifications and software quality standards

About You

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree, or master's degree plus 3 years experience)
  • 5 or more years of related experience in software testing or software development
  • Expertise in multiple programming languages and advanced understanding of software development principles
  • Ability to design and architect complex software systems
  • Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to mentor and guide other engineers
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Proficiency with Linux-based software development environments
  • Experience with spacecraft flight software or ground command and control software
  • Experience with automated testing tools and frameworks
  • Knowledge of software testing methodologies and best practices
  • Familiarity with continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) processes
  • Understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and agile methodologies
  • Ability to rapidly work with minimal supervision on projects involving both small and large engineering teams
  • Experience with testing software systems used in aerospace or other highly regulated industries
  • Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python, JavaScript, or Shell
  • Familiarity with common object-oriented software design patterns
  • Knowledge of security testing practices and tools
  • Familiarity with cloud-based testing environments and tools
  • Experience with test management tools such as JIRA, TestRail, or similar
  • Experience in leading and managing testing projects and teams
  • Familiarity with spacecraft simulation software, discrete time simulation or software modeling of hardware
  • Practical experience utilizing software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop test methods
  • Familiarity with fault-tolerant software design and safety-critical systems
  • Strong understanding of software system architectures and design patterns

Compensation

Pay Range: $60.87 - $83.69 per hour

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.

Security Clearance Requirement

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance.