Principal Test Engineer (Clearance Required)

Sierra Space•Centennial, CO

About The Position

As a Principal Test Engineer at Sierra Space, you will use extensive experience and advanced knowledge across multiple areas of test engineering to lead complex testing and validation projects. You will design test strategies and frameworks, apply advanced technical principles, and lead cross-functional teams. The role also involves mentoring engineers and driving continuous improvement across the enterprise’s testing functions. The position supports the validation of aerospace systems and components, using testing equipment, standards, and methodologies to demonstrate compliance with system requirements and ensure quality. An active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance and U.S. citizenship are required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience in lieu of a degree; alternatively, a master’s degree plus 10 years of experience.
Typically 12 or more years of related experience.
Active Top Secret U.S. Security Clearance; U.S. citizenship is required for the clearance.
Advanced knowledge of multiple areas of test engineering principles and practices, such as dynamics, thermal, measurement, HSI, software testing, and integration.
Expertise in designing test strategies and frameworks, strong analytical skills, knowledge of automated testing tools, and programming skills for test script development.
Experience applying advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts in Test Engineering functions.
Proficiency with testing equipment, standards, and methodologies.
Strong ability to troubleshoot and solve complex testing problems.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with advanced engineering software tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, or TestStand for testing and validation.
Experience with environmental testing equipment such as thermal chambers, vibration tables, and data acquisition systems.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple high-complexity tasks and priorities.
Ability to rapidly learn and apply new test engineering concepts and methodologies.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in aerospace engineering.
Strong leadership and collaboration skills for working within cross-functional teams and leading initiatives.
Excellent communication skills for conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences.
Track record of technical leadership and ownership of high-impact projects from concept through completion.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute advanced and complex test plans, test procedures, and test reports to demonstrate compliance with system requirements.
Design and implement advanced test strategies and frameworks, using analytical skills and automated testing tools.
Develop and use programming skills to create test scripts and support robust, efficient testing processes.
Apply advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts in Test Engineering functions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to advance the capabilities and efficiencies of testing across the enterprise.
Use and refine testing equipment, standards, and methodologies to support validation and quality of aerospace systems and components.
Lead cross-functional teams in continuous improvement, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Troubleshoot and solve complex testing problems to ensure system integrity and performance.
Mentor other engineers and support their technical skills and professional development.
Prepare and document technical data, reports, and analyses to support engineering initiatives and project decisions.
Communicate complex technical concepts and information to team members, senior engineers, and stakeholders.