Material Science Engineer III (Contractor)

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 RoleAs a Material Science Engineer III at Sierra Space, you will utilize your extensive experience and expertise to lead complex engineering projects. Your deep understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts in material sciences will enable you to provide innovative and practical solutions. Working under general direction, you will independently develop approaches to address technical challenges, acting as the Responsible Engineer (RE) for discrete technical packages. Additionally, you will provide guidance to less experienced engineers and frequently communicate with external parties.
In this role, you will lead the development and analysis of materials used in aerospace systems, leveraging your expertise in material sciences. You will apply a complete understanding of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts to solve a wide range of technical problems. Developing and documenting technical data, reports, and presentations to support engineering projects and organizational objectives will be a key aspect of your responsibilities. You will independently determine and develop approaches to solutions while working under general direction. Acting as the Responsible Engineer (RE) for discrete technical packages, you will ensure technical accuracy and compliance with project requirements. Collaborating across all technical disciplines, you will integrate material science solutions into broader engineering projects, while providing guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers to foster professional growth and enhance team capabilities. Additionally, you will frequently communicate technical concepts and information outside of Sierra Space, engaging with suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders to support routine business activities. Participating in technical reviews, project meetings, and strategy sessions, you will provide expert insights and drive engineering excellence to achieve organizational goals.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 or master's +3 yrs experience).

• Typically, 5+ years of related experience.

• Expertise in material sciences.

• Experience managing discrete technical packages as a Responsible Engineer (RE).

• Complete understanding and application of technical principles, standards, theories, and concepts.

• General knowledge of related disciplines.

• Ability to provide solutions to wide-ranging technical problems that are imaginative, thorough, practical, and consistent with organization objectives.

• Ability to work under general direction to independently determine and develop approaches to solutions.

• Ability to work across all technical disciplines.

• Ability to provide guidance to entry-level engineers.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency with advanced engineering software tools such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or COMSOL for material analysis and simulation.

• Experience with material characterization and test techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, tensile, fatigue, creep, and fracture.

• Familiarity with materials selection software like CES Selector.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex tasks and priorities effectively.

• Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn and apply new concepts and methodologies.

• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in material sciences and aerospace engineering.

• Teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.

• Proven track record of successful leadership and ownership of technical projects from concept through completion.

• Experience in communicating technical information to external stakeholders such as suppliers and partners.

• Knowledge of failure analysis techniques and root cause analysis.

• Experience with additive manufacturing processes and materials.

• Familiarity with regulatory standards and compliance requirements in aerospace materials.

Compensation:

Pay Range:

$47 - $65

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:

To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant 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.

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. 

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.

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.