Principal Mechanical Engineer

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 Principal Mechanical Engineer role focuses on applying advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts to engineering projects, as well as contributing to the development of new principles and concepts. The position involves leading projects or significant aspects of a program, developing and implementing innovative solutions, and working under consultative direction toward long-range goals and objectives. Responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams, analyzing and interpreting data, preparing detailed technical documentation, and mentoring junior engineers. This role is critical in driving innovation, ensuring successful project execution, and supporting the overall mission of the organization. In this role, you will lead design and analysis efforts for multiple programs and complex design activities, which may include serving as a Responsible Engineer (RE). You will manage all aspects of system and component design, development, and integration, including trade studies, layouts, architecture definition, system testing and verification, and troubleshooting. By applying advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts, you will contribute to engineering projects, utilizing data analysis and interpretation skills to evaluate test and simulation data, inform design decisions, and identify areas for improvement. You will interact with senior personnel across the organization on significant technical matters and prepare detailed technical documentation and reports to communicate findings and support project objectives. Representing the organization as the prime technical contact on contracts and projects, you will work under consultative direction toward predetermined long-range goals and objectives. Additionally, you will contribute to the development of new principles and concepts, driving innovation within the organization, and develop and implement innovative solutions and rigorous analyses to address complex technical challenges. Mentoring junior engineers and providing guidance on their technical and professional development will be an integral part of your responsibilities. Furthermore, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and refine system designs, ensuring they meet performance and safety requirements. 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. Demonstrated expertise in Mechanical Engineering technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques. Ability to provide solutions to unusually complex technical problems which require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity. Ability to work under consultative direction towards predetermined long-range goals and objectives. The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required. Preferred Qualifications: Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Extensive experience with design, analysis, integration, and test methods, tools, and processes related to mechanical, propulsion, structures, fluids, and/or environmental systems at the subsystem and component level. Proficiency with advanced engineering software tools such as NX, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or similar. Experience with advanced data analysis tools and techniques used to derive actionable insights from complex datasets. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with a proven track record of innovative solutions in mechanical engineering. Superior communication and presentation skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including senior management and external stakeholders. Ability to work independently and within a team, demonstrating strong leadership and collaboration skills. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple high-stakes projects simultaneously and meet challenging deadlines. Advanced knowledge of manufacturing processes, material sciences, and their impact on mechanical systems. Advanced experience with end-item or vehicle-level testing and validation, including the ability to design and execute complex test plans. Experience in supporting pursuits and proposals, including generating, reviewing, and approving technical proposals and BOEs. Compensation: Pay Range: $167,096.00 - $229,757.00 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 Corporation is 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 with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us. About Sierra Space Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation's most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.