Dream Chaser ECLS Flight Controller

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

3d•$119,064 - $163,713•Onsite

About The Position

The ECLS (Environmental Control & Life Support) Flight Controller serves as the real-time systems engineer responsible for Dream Chaser spacecraft thermal management and environmental control systems during mission operations. Operating from the Taylor Mission Control Center in Louisville, CO, the ECLS Flight Controller monitors spacecraft telemetry, executes procedures, commands thermal control systems, and provides real-time technical decisions to ensure spacecraft environmental health and mission success. They represent the ECLS subsystem within the integrated Flight Control Team (FCT), working alongside 10 other console positions under the direction of the Flight Director. The ECLS Flight Controller monitors real-time telemetry, analyzes system performance, troubleshoots anomalies, executes nominal and contingency procedures, and coordinates with Engineering Support Room (ESR) personnel to resolve technical issues. During missions, ECLS provides 24/7 coverage through rotating 9-hour shifts, maintaining spacecraft thermal control and environmental systems. This role embodies the seven Foundations of Flight Operations—Discipline, Competence, Confidence, Responsibility, Toughness, Teamwork, and Vigilance—and operates under the principle that "spaceflight will never tolerate carelessness, incapacity, and neglect."

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Thermal Engineering, or related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters + 3 years experience).
Typically 5+ years of related experience in thermal systems, spacecraft operations, aerospace test operations, or related technical field (or Masters + 3 years of experience).
Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and thermal control system principles.
Knowledge of requirements management, system integration, verification/validation principles, and systems development lifecycle.
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; ability to articulate technical issues to diverse audiences including Flight Director and Flight Control Team.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams with strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
High degree of rigor in executing procedures and documenting actions; commitment to operational excellence and attention to detail.
Ability to work rotating 9-hour shifts for 24/7 mission coverage; on-site presence at Louisville, CO required during missions.
Ability to pass and maintain FAA medical screening requirements via certified Aviation Medical Examiner.
Ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Security Clearance.
U.S. Citizenship status is required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
Direct experience with spacecraft thermal control systems including active cooling, heat rejection, thermal loops, and environmental conditioning.
Previous experience as a flight controller, mission controller, test conductor, or real-time operations role in space operations or aerospace test environments.
Background in spacecraft Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS) for crewed vehicles or cargo spacecraft.
Experience with command and control systems (InControl or similar) and procedure execution platforms (Epsilon3 or similar).
Experience interpreting real-time telemetry, commanding spacecraft systems, and troubleshooting anomalies in operational environments.
Understanding of spacecraft subsystems and their thermal interfaces (EPS, avionics, propulsion, mechanical systems).
Knowledge of flight rules, operational limits, go/no-go decision processes, and mission operations protocols.
Experience developing operational procedures, console handbooks, flight rules, or training materials for mission operations.
Understanding of project management methodologies including risk management and technical performance tracking.
Excellent troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills with ability to extrapolate beyond known scenarios and make educated decisions with incomplete information.
Demonstrated composure and sound judgment in high-stress situations; ability to adapt to fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous operational environments.
Embodiment of the seven Foundations of Flight Operations: Discipline, Competence, Confidence, Responsibility, Toughness, Teamwork, and Vigilance.

Responsibilities

Monitor and command spacecraft thermal control, active cooling, heat rejection, and environmental conditioning systems via real-time telemetry during mission operations.
Execute nominal and contingency procedures using Epsilon3 and InControl systems.
Analyze telemetry trends to identify anomalies.
Communicate clearly on Flight Control Team voice loops.
Support pre-mission planning by reviewing flight plans and developing console products.
Participate in simulations to maintain proficiency and certification.
Coordinate with other console positions (EPS, AVIONICS, MECH, PROP) on integrated system issues.
Provide go/no-go recommendations to the Flight Director.
Interface with ESR Responsible Engineers for technical troubleshooting.
Develop ECLS procedures, flight rules, and display pages.
Investigate thermal control system anomalies and develop corrective actions.