Ground Operations Engineer II

About this role

Sierra Space Careers: At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.     Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.  

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role The Ground Operations Engineer II role focuses on providing solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity related to mechanical systems, propulsion, structures, or environmental systems. The position involves frequent use and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts in engineering projects. The role requires a working knowledge of mechanical design methods as well as an ability to work under general supervision, contribute to program milestones and occasionally communicate with external stakeholders. Responsibilities include collaborating with other team members to collect and analyze data, prepare technical documentation and achieve project goals. About You Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.  

We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Job Description: Support and execute ground operations for test, launch, and landing campaigns at sites across multiple facilities. Perform spacecraft and launch vehicle processing activities including MES authoring, procedure validation, integration operations, and post-flight recovery. Execute hazardous operations procedures, maintain facility protocols, and verify compliance with range safety and quality requirements. Coordinate with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, launch vehicle providers, and range operations to support mission success. Document processing activities, anomalies, and lessons learned. Travel required to support field operations at government-regulated aerospace facilities and commercial spaceports during campaign execution phases.  • Support spacecraft processing from end of production through integrated test into launch and landing including: MES authoring and ownership, procedure validation, payload integration, propellant loading operations, electrical and mechanical checkouts, configuration management, flight hardware handling and logistics coordination. 

• Perform spacecraft integration activities with launch vehicles, including mating to adapters, encapsulation within payload fairings, and interface verification. Validate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and verify compliance with launch provider requirements.  

• Execute hazardous procedures for propellant loading and other critical activities while maintaining clean room protocols to prevent contamination. Verify compliance with range safety requirements and quality standards. Support risk assessments for non-standard operations. Document processing activities and anomalies and incorporate lessons learned into procedures and processes. 

• Support coordination with launch vehicle teams, range operations, mission/flight operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders. Communicate with external stakeholders including program customers and launch providers during launch campaigns.

Key Responsibilities: • Contribute to the completion of designs directly associated with program milestones.

• Take ownership of discrete technical packages to support design activities.

• Frequently use and apply technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts in engineering projects.

• Collect and analyze data related to mechanical systems, propulsion, structures, structural analysis, or environmental systems.

• Provide solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity.

• Prepare detailed technical documentation and reports to communicate findings and support project objectives.

• Work under general supervision following established procedures and guidelines.

• Collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams to achieve project goals and meet deadlines.

• Occasionally communicate with external stakeholders to support project requirements and objectives.

Minimum Qualifications: • Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).

• Typically 2+ years of related experience.

• Strong understanding of Mechanical Engineering technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.

• Experience applying application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts.

• Ability to provide solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity.

• Ability to work in a team and independently with general guidance from senior engineers.

• Clear verbal and written communication of technical concepts and information.

Preferred Qualifications: • Familiarity with design, analysis, and test methods related to mechanical systems, propulsion, structures, and/or environmental systems.

• Proficiency with engineering CAD tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar including advanced understanding of detail drawing standards and GD&T.

• Experience with project management and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Strong probl

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