Mission Design Engineer I

Posted 6 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
2 Locations
In-Office
78K-107K Annually
Junior
Aerospace • Hardware • Information Technology • Robotics • Defense • Utilities
Defending Today. Defining Tomorrow.
The Role
Supports mission design and analysis for spacecraft and system-of-systems development. Defines mission parameters, derives requirements, builds constellation and performance models, analyzes mission data, and contributes to modeling and simulation efforts. Prepares technical documentation and reports, communicates findings, solves routine technical problems, and collaborates with senior engineers and broader design teams to meet project objectives.
Summary Generated by Built In
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 RoleThe Mission Design & Analysis Engineer I is an entry-level role focused on supporting senior engineers in mission design and analysis projects. The Mission Design & Analysis Engineer I works to define mission parameters and derive driving mission requirements as part of a novel spacecraft development. The Mission Design & Analysis Engineer I understands and parses mission objectives to produce relevant mission modeling and simulation data using analytical methods and mission level modeling and simulation techniques. They create constellation and system-of-systems models to evaluate mission performance parameters, then communicate those results to the broader design team.
In this role, you will assist senior engineers in the analysis, modeling, and simulation of system and system-of-systems performance parameters. You will collect and analyze data related to mission design and system performance, helping to develop solutions to routine technical problems of limited scope and complexity. Additionally, you will prepare technical documentation and reports to communicate findings and support project objectives. Working collaboratively with team members, you will contribute to achieving project goals and meeting deadlines. Your responsibilities will also include clearly communicating technical concepts and information both verbally and in writing to ensure effective collaboration and understanding.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 entry-level 0 - 2 years of experience.
  • Basic knowledge and understanding of systems design and development principles.
  • Ability to work in a team and follow instructions from senior engineers.
  • Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Internship, co-op experience or specialized education in mission design or analysis, astrodynamics, or system-of-systems engineering.
  • Experience working in or familiarity with common industry system & mission modeling tools and languages, such as STK, FreeFlyer, Cameo EA, SysML, Matlab, Python or similar.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Eagerness to learn and develop new skills in a dynamic work environment.


Compensation:

Pay Range:

$77,685.00 - $106,816.50

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.

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.

Skills Required

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree
  • 0–2 years of experience
  • Basic knowledge of systems design and development principles
  • Ability to work in a team and follow instructions from senior engineers
  • Clear verbal and written communication skills
  • Internship, co-op experience, or specialized education in mission design, analysis, astrodynamics, or system-of-systems engineering
  • Experience with or familiarity with STK, FreeFlyer, Cameo EA, SysML, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools and languages
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Eagerness to learn and develop new skills

What the Team is Saying

Dylan
Sarah
Chris
Jack

Sierra Space Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Retirement Support — The 401(k) program includes employer matching with a vesting schedule and is repeatedly highlighted as a standout element. Feedback suggests this structure meaningfully supports long‑term savings.
  • Healthcare Strength — Comprehensive medical options (PPO and HDHP) with dental, vision, and HSA/FSA are consistently listed, alongside life and disability coverage. Feedback suggests healthcare offerings are solid and broadly well‑regarded.
  • Parental & Family Support — Paid parental leave is present and commonly described as favorable among core benefits. Feedback suggests new parents can access meaningful time away to care for family needs.

Sierra Space Insights

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The Company
HQ: Louisville, CO
1,600 Employees
Year Founded: 2021

What We Do

Securing The Freedom of Operations Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company delivering satellite platforms, critical subsystems, reusable spaceplanes, hypersonic technologies, propulsion systems, and infrastructure for the nation’s most critical missions. With more than three decades of heritage and a record of flight-proven success in space, Sierra Space is trusted by U.S. National Security, Civil customers, and global allies. Our technologies safeguard our nation, sustain human exploration in space, and ensure the freedom of operations beyond Earth. Sierra Space is defining the new era of Space Defense, strengthening deterrence today and preserving freedom of action for generations to come.

Why Work With Us

At Sierra Space, you’ll find a supportive, respectful and upbeat culture where your opinions matter and your personal contributions have impact. If you’re thinking about your own next frontier, we’d love to help you explore it.

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Sierra Space Offices

OnSite Workspace

Typical time on-site: None
HQLouisville, CO
Durham, NC
Madison, WI
Exploration Park
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