Deputy Lead Flight Software Test Engineer (Sr. Software Engineer)

Sierra Space Careers : Dare to Dream

We honor those that are not afraid to dream big dreams, those that tenaciously chase their dreams even when others say it cannot be done, those that achieve big dreams and change everything. Those are Dreams Worth Chasing.

At Sierra Space we envision a future where humanity lives and works in space, on moons, and on distant planets. Our mission isn’t restricted to the few, instead we see a future where all people can choose to live, work, discover and explore beyond our planet. Our company is building a platform in space to benefit life on Earth and together we will alter the course of humanity.

We have a bold mission. We are a bold company. Together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Software Test Engineer to join our growing team as the Deputy Test Lead. Our team is responsible for verifying the flight software for the Dream Chaser Space Plane poised to launch in 2024! As Deputy Test Lead you will be directly responsible for designing, implementing, and executing test plans to identify issues, bugs, and defects before product release and manage test tasks and milestones across multiple functional areas. The products you verify will not only go to space, but they will also be a part of shaping the future of Spaceflight for humanity. As a member of the larger, Centralized Software and Artificial Intelligence organization you will also have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects and products across the Sierra Space Enterprise along with an incredible community of software professionals. We are truly One Team, with One Dream. Come make history with us!

Responsibilities :

• Serve as a co-technical lead and / or co-product owner with the Test Lead.
• Lead the creation and execution of detailed, comprehensive, and well-structured test plans and test cases.
• Maintain weekly schedule inputs, track metrics and velocity, and remove obstacles to achieve milestones on-time and under budget.
• Direct the development of test descriptions and peer reviews.
• Direct the development and review of software code, specifically automated Python test scripts to be leveraged in the Continuous Integration environment.
• Prioritize and plan testing activities in a fast-paced environment.
• Review and analyze software design descriptions, ICDs, and requirements in coordination with development teams.
• Manage software test risks, opportunities, cost, and schedule.
• Perform software test trade studies such as test management tools, Continuous Integration Test techniques and methodologies, software simulation platforms, etc.
• Monitor and implement continuous team improvements.
• Hold planning meetings and technical meetings as required.
• Oversee and execute developmental tests and formal verification tests.
• Manage (and execute) test result analysis, test report generation, and issue definitions / investigations / closures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Program Management, Software Development, Flight Operations, etc.) to ensure quality throughout the software development lifecycle.
• Coordinate and define test roles and responsibilities within the program.
• Manage the defect lifecycle from discovery to resolution, working with developers to reproduce issues and verify fixes.
• Implement automated testing tools and frameworks to optimize the testing and verification processes.
• Oversee and contribute towards the development, peer review, and management of test plans, test harnesses, test cases, test scripts, test procedures, and test reports for various subsystems.
• Manage and coordinate expectations across functional teams.
• Mentor and support junior testers to help them grow professionally.
• Conduct root cause analysis on defects and recommend improvements to prevent recurrence.
• Report bugs and errors to development teams and provide insightful feedback to assist in the decision-making process.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders when necessary to clarify requirements or discuss testing strategies.
• Plan team execution of software release tests, acceptance tests, and qualification tests.
• Collect and report technical, schedule, and cost metrics.
• Ensure that software standards are met and that all test artifacts adhere to Sierra Space standards.
• Stay up to date with new testing tools and strategies, incorporating best practices into the testing cycle.

Minimum Requirements :

Preferred Qualifications :

IMPORTANT NOTICE :

To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Physical / Mental / Emotional Requirements :

Working Conditions :

Employee Value Proposition :

At Sierra Space, we offer a unique opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking mission that is transforming the future of space exploration. As a member of our rapidly expanding Software and Artificial Intelligence organization, you will have the chance to work alongside top talent in the industry, collaborate on cutting-edge projects, and contribute to shaping the future of space technology. We provide a supportive and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation, encourages professional growth, and rewards excellence. Join us in our mission to commercialize Low Earth Orbit and provide cost-effective access to space for all industries, making a meaningful impact on humanity's journey to the stars.

At Sierra Space we deliver customer-focused technology and best-of-breed integrations in the aerospace and defense sectors. Sierra Space has been honored as one of the most innovative U.S. companies in space, a Tier One Superior Supplier for the U.S. Air Force, and as one of America’s fastest-growing companies.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

Sierra Space offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.

We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 8%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

Estimated Starting Salary Range :

138,634.92 - $190,623.01

At Sierra Space we are at the very doorstep of unlocking the future and the work in front of us is hard, but it is truly important and meaningful. Achieving our mission requires dedication, relentless pursuit of a dream and an unwavering passion for pushing the boundaries to accomplish what others might believe to be impossible. We seek those who too, Dare to Dream and will join us in a pursuit to achieve the extraordinary.