New

Principal Software Engineer

Sierra Space
life insurance, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Colorado, Louisville
Nov 18, 2025
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 RoleThe Principal Software Engineer role involves designing, developing, and testing software applications for space systems and technologies. This advanced position requires extensive expertise in multiple programming languages, an advanced understanding of software development principles, and the ability to design, architect, and implement complex software systems. The role includes writing clean, maintainable code, collaborating with team members to understand project requirements, and contributing to the development of innovative software solutions. Additionally, this position requires a deep understanding of software engineering processes, advanced algorithmic knowledge, and system scalability. The role also involves providing technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers. In this role, you will design, develop, and test software applications for space systems and technologies while writing clean, maintainable code that adheres to best practices and coding standards. You will architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements and collaborate with team members to understand project needs, contributing to the development of effective software solutions. Utilizing version control systems such as Git, you will manage code changes and work collaboratively with team members. You will participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and adherence to development standards, troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues in a timely manner, and document software configurations, processes, and procedures for future reference. Staying current with industry trends and advancements in software development and space technologies will be essential. Additionally, you will independently contribute to the design and development of software applications, conduct unit tests, and participate in code reviews. You will also provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers, fostering collaboration and growth within the team. 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. Minimum Qualifications: Requires bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or master's +10 yrs experience). Typically, 12+ years of related 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, ability to design complex software systems, and knowledge of best practices, including secure coding, and system architecture principles. Ability to independently contribute to the design and development of software applications, conduct unit tests, and participate in code reviews. Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban. The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required Preferred Qualifications: Expert-level proficiency in C++ and Object-Oriented Programming, with a strong ability to design and implement complex software architectures. Extensive experience designing and implementing client-server applications using socket I/O with TCP/UDP protocols. Proven expertise in developing loosely coupled, scalable applications leveraging PUB/SUB messaging frameworks. In-depth knowledge of open standards such as CCSDS, C2MS, Open Mission Systems (OMS), and Universal C2 Interface (UCI), with experience integrating these standards into software solutions. Comprehensive experience in spacecraft flight software development, including real-time systems and fault-tolerant architectures. Significant experience developing mission management and/or payload control software for complex systems. Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional software development teams, effectively managing timelines, deliverables, and technical challenges. Advanced experience utilizing software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, artifact repositories, and automated build pipelines. Deep understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile/Scrum, and the ability to mentor teams in their adoption and execution. Strong knowledge and practical application of Software Design Patterns for creating maintainable, efficient, and scalable codebases. Extensive experience using SysML/UML to create comprehensive and precise software designs. Proficiency in testing and debugging within both Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) environments, including testing on target platforms. Advanced expertise in Source Code Configuration Management platforms, such as GIT and SVN, with a focus on maintaining robust version control practices. Extensive experience developing and deploying software on Linux-based systems, including kernel-level programming and optimization. Advanced knowledge of network configurations, including netconf, and experience implementing secure and efficient network communication protocols. Proven expertise in embedded programming, including new board bring-up and low-level hardware/software integration. Extensive experience optimizing computer system performance, with a focus on timing, resource utilization, and power efficiency. Compensation: Pay Range: $180,125.00 - $247,692.50 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. IMPORTANT NOTICE: 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. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use. 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. We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more. 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 to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration. Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees. Sierra Space Corporationis an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.