Sr Manager, Ground Operations

Sierra Space•Louisville, CO

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Sierra Space is seeking an experienced Senior Manager of Ground Operations to lead spacecraft processing activities. This includes transportation, handling, pre-launch operations, and launch vehicle integration. The role focuses on driving operational excellence through leadership, process improvements, and strategic alignment with mission objectives. The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between spacecraft manufacturing and successful launch, ensuring a safe and efficient transition from production to orbit.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
Typically 8+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft operations, launch integration, or related aerospace field.
5+ years in a managerial or leadership role overseeing technical teams.
Demonstrated knowledge of spacecraft systems, launch vehicle interfaces, and ground support equipment.
Experience with spacecraft transportation logistics and handling of flight hardware.
Knowledge of clean room protocols and contamination control.
Experience with hazardous operations including propellant loading and pressurization and critical lifts.
Experience with launch site operations at major ranges (Cape Canaveral, Vandenberg, etc.).
Familiarity with range safety requirements and launch site operations.
Strong leadership, collaboration and team development skills.
Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
Ability to work effectively under pressure in time-critical situations.
Must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Responsibilities

Lead and develop a team of direct and matrixed engineers, technicians, and specialists responsible for all aspects of spacecraft ground operations.
Define and implement strategic direction for ground operations, including planning, investment, operations, compliance, and asset management.
Develop and implement command media policies, processes, and lifecycle concepts of operations.
Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Direct all aspects of spacecraft processing from receipt through launch, including initial inspections, functional testing, payload integration, propellant loading, final checkouts, and spacecraft configuration management for launch.
Ensure Flight Support Equipment (FSE) readiness for campaign operations.
Ensure proper handling, transportation, and logistics of high-value flight hardware.
Oversee the integration of spacecraft with launch vehicles, including mating to adapters, encapsulation within payload fairings, and interface verification.
Ensure proper validation of Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and compliance with launch provider requirements.
Lead resolution of technical interface issues between spacecraft and launch vehicles.
Coordinate with launch vehicle teams and range operations for successful integration.
Implement and enforce hazardous operations procedures for propellant loading and other critical activities.
Maintain clean room protocols to prevent contamination.
Ensure compliance with range safety requirements and quality standards.
Conduct risk assessments for non-standard operations.
Document all processing activities and anomalies.
Implement lessons learned into procedures and processes.
Interface with launch vehicle teams, range operations, and mission/flight operations.
Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and other stakeholders.
Represent ground operations to external stakeholders including program customers and launch providers.
Facilitate communication between all stakeholders during launch campaigns.
Develop and optimize processing flows for efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Manage schedules and resources for processing activities.
Track and report on key performance metrics to executive leadership.
Lead change management initiatives related to technology implementation and process improvements.