Dream Chaser Flight Controller (Systems Engineer III)

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

1d•$108,240 - $148,830•Onsite

About The Position

The Spacecraft Systems Flight Controller is the real-time systems engineer responsible for Dream Chaser spacecraft subsystem operations during mission operations. Based at the Taylor Mission Control Center in Louisville, Colorado, the role monitors spacecraft telemetry, executes procedures, commands spacecraft systems, and makes real-time technical decisions to support spacecraft health and mission success. The Flight Controller represents an assigned console discipline—EPS, ECLS, PROP, INCO, AVIONICS, or MECH—within the integrated Flight Control Team, working with other console positions under the direction of the Flight Director. Spacecraft Systems provides 24/7 mission coverage through rotating 9-hour shifts. The role monitors and commands spacecraft subsystems using real-time telemetry; executes nominal and contingency procedures through Epsilon3 and InControl; analyzes telemetry trends and troubleshoots anomalies; and communicates on Flight Control Team voice loops. It supports pre-mission planning by reviewing flight plans and developing console products, participates in simulations to maintain proficiency and certification, coordinates with other console positions and Engineering Support Room Responsible Engineers, and provides go/no-go recommendations to the Flight Director. The Flight Controller also develops procedures, flight rules, and display pages, and investigates subsystem anomalies to develop corrective actions. The role operates according to the seven Foundations of Flight Operations: Discipline, Competence, Confidence, Responsibility, Toughness, Teamwork, and Vigilance.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent work experience may substitute for the degree.
Typically 2 or more years of related experience in spacecraft systems, aerospace operations, aerospace test operations, or a related technical field.
Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering principles, including requirements management, system integration, verification and validation, and the systems development lifecycle.
Knowledge of spacecraft subsystem operations relevant to the assigned console discipline, such as power, thermal, propulsion, communications, avionics, or mechanical systems.
Ability to analyze complex technical data and make sound decisions under time pressure in dynamic, real-time operations environments.
Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to articulate technical issues to the Flight Director and Flight Control Team.
Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, with strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
High degree of rigor in executing procedures and documenting actions, with commitment to operational excellence and attention to detail.
Ability to work rotating 9-hour shifts for 24/7 mission coverage; on-site presence in Louisville, Colorado is required during missions.
Ability to pass and maintain FAA medical screening requirements through a certified Aviation Medical Examiner.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with spacecraft subsystems, such as EPS (solar arrays, batteries, power distribution, and electrical protection); ECLS (thermal control, atmosphere management, and fluid systems); PROP (propulsion, RCS operations, and propellant management); INCO (command and data handling, communications, and onboard software); AVIONICS (GN&C, flight computers, sensors, and actuators); or MECH (structures, mechanisms, deployment, and actuation systems).
Previous experience as a flight controller, mission controller, test conductor, or in another real-time operations role in space operations or aerospace test environments.
Experience with command-and-control systems such as InControl and procedure execution platforms such as Epsilon3, or similar systems.
Experience interpreting real-time telemetry, commanding spacecraft systems, and troubleshooting anomalies in operational environments.
Understanding of spacecraft subsystems and interfaces across power, thermal, propulsion, avionics, communications, and mechanical disciplines.
Knowledge of flight rules, operational limits, go/no-go decision processes, and mission operations protocols.
Experience developing operational procedures, console handbooks, flight rules, or mission operations training materials.
Understanding of project management methodologies, including risk management and technical performance tracking.
Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills, including the ability to extrapolate beyond known scenarios and make informed decisions with incomplete information.
Composure and sound judgment in high-stress situations, and ability to adapt to fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous operational environments.
Demonstrated embodiment of the seven Foundations of Flight Operations: Discipline, Competence, Confidence, Responsibility, Toughness, Teamwork, and Vigilance.

Responsibilities

Monitor and command spacecraft subsystems using real-time telemetry during mission operations.
Execute nominal and contingency procedures using Epsilon3 and InControl systems.
Analyze telemetry trends, assess system performance, identify anomalies, and troubleshoot subsystem issues.
Communicate technical information clearly on Flight Control Team voice loops.
Review flight plans and develop console products in support of pre-mission planning.
Participate in simulations to maintain proficiency and certification.
Coordinate with other console positions on integrated system issues.
Provide go/no-go recommendations to the Flight Director.
Interface with Engineering Support Room Responsible Engineers to troubleshoot technical issues.
Develop operational procedures, flight rules, and display pages.
Investigate subsystem anomalies and develop corrective actions.
Provide 24/7 mission coverage through rotating 9-hour shifts and maintain spacecraft subsystem health and performance.