Sr Systems Engineer (Flight Operations – Flight Dynamics) Verified today
About the Role
Sierra Space seeks a senior flight dynamics engineer to join the Flight Operations team supporting Dream Chaser missions. You will work toward becoming a certified Dream Chaser flight controller, responsible for mission planning, analysis, and execution from Mission Control Center in Louisville, CO.
Within Flight Planning and Design, you will use custom FreeFlyer-based tools to assess launch and deorbit opportunities, design spacecraft trajectories, and perform ground-based navigation. You will collaborate with hardware, software, flight science, and flight control disciplines to integrate timelines, procedures, trajectories, and attitudes.
You will complete flight controller certification training and simulations, then provide real-time mission support from the Mission Control Center.
Responsibilities
- Perform mission analysis and design using flight dynamics tools to conduct trade studies and plan trajectories as a subject matter expert
- Execute ground-based navigation and statistical orbit determination from conceptualization through operational flight support
- Guide and mentor a flight dynamics team through design, development, and operational phases
- Represent Flight Planning and Design across disciplines (GNC, systems engineering, flight operations) to validate mission design end-to-end
- Participate in development and validation of the Flight Dynamics Tool Suite as an end user
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline; advanced degree may substitute for experience
- Typically 10+ years of relevant experience
- Strong background in orbital mechanics and orbit determination
- Experience in spacecraft operations: navigation support, maneuver planning, or real-time anomaly resolution
- Demonstrated ability to guide ground navigation trades and analysis using statistical orbit determination expertise
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, self-starter, comfortable in fast-paced changing environments
- Ability to work effectively under pressure as part of a team
- Willingness and ability to pass flight controller certification and physical exam, which may be a condition of continued employment
Preferred Qualifications
- MATLAB or Python
- STK or FreeFlyer
- Tool development including GUI in any coding language
- Experience in spacecraft entry, descent and landing operations
- Technical writing and detailed process documentation
- Strong foundation in Spacecraft Attitudes
Compensation and Location
Pay Range: $143,700.00 - $197,608.50
Base compensation determined case-by-case based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
This is a full-time, on-site position in Louisville, Colorado. Some shiftwork required during mission operations.
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%; life insurance; 3 weeks paid time off.