Software Engineer II - Flight Software
- US citizenship
How this pay compares
This posting states $106k–$145k a year. Open software engineer jobs in Colorado post a median of $160k a year, the middle half $130k–$196k, across 275 jobs that state their pay, so this one is below the middle half of what they post.
About the job
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 Software Engineer II role involves designing, developing, and testing software applications for space systems and technologies. This mid-level position requires a strong understanding of programming languages and software development principles, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Responsibilities include writing clean, maintainable code, collaborating with team members to understand project requirements, and contributing to the development of innovative software solutions. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in the space industry, stay current with industry trends, and advance in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
In this role, you will design, develop, and test software applications for space systems and technologies, writing clean, maintainable code that adheres to best practices and coding standards. You will collaborate with team members to understand project requirements and contribute to the development of software solutions. Utilizing version control systems such as Git, you will manage code changes and work effectively with team members. You will participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and adherence to development standards, troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues in a timely manner, and document software designs, configurations, processes, and procedures for future reference. Staying current with industry trends and advancements in software development and space technologies will be essential, and you will work both independently and as part of a team to deliver high-quality software solutions.
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).
- Typically, 2+ years of related experience.
- Strong understanding of at least one programming language, and general knowledge of others.
- Strong understanding of software development principles.
- Ability to design, code, test, and debug complex software applications.
- Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++.
- Experience with spacecraft flight software development.
- Familiarity with Open Standards such as CCSDS, C2MS, Open Mission Systems (OMS), and Universal C2 Interface (UCI).
- Experience developing mission management and/or payload control software.
- Experience with software tools for requirements tracking, code reviews, static analysis, library and artifact repository, and automated build.
- Familiarity with scripting languages and automation tools.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Experience with continuous integration and automated test.
- Knowledge and experience implementing Software Design Patterns.
- Familiarity with SysML/UML to create software designs.
- Experience utilizing and setting up static analysis tools.
Pay Range
$105,534.00 - $145,109.25
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 .
From Sierra Space's job posting, checked 12 Nov 2026. Requirements, and whether the role is still open, are settled on the employer's own page.
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About Sierra Space
Builds the Dream Chaser spaceplane, satellites and the ground systems that run them.
Pay on its listings: 96.4% of its open jobs state their pay
How it pays: Paid as an employee on Sierra Space's own payroll (salaried or hourly, as each posting states).
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