Principal Chemist

Sierra Space Careers: Dare to Dream
We honor those that are not afraid to dream big dreams, those that tenaciously chase their dreams even when others say it cannot be done, those that achieve big dreams and change everything. Those are Dreams Worth Chasing.
At Sierra Space we envision a future where humanity lives and works in space, on moons, and on distant planets. Our mission isn't restricted to the few, instead we see a future where all people can choose to live, work, discover and explore beyond our planet. Our company is building a platform in space to benefit life on Earth and together we will alter the course of humanity.
We have a bold mission. We are a bold company. Together, we are an extraordinary team.
About the Role
Sierra Space is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Chemist to join our growing team and play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of spacecraft and their propulsion and life support systems. At Sierra Space, we are pushing the boundaries of space exploration and commercial spaceflight, and you will be an integral part of that mission.
About You
Our mission is driven by the unwavering passion to push the boundaries of what is possible. We seek those who Dare to Dream - to envision the extraordinary and pursue it relentlessly - to join us on this transformational journey.
We're looking for dreamers who align with our values, vision and audacious goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement procedures and qualification activities for innovative chemical formulations for both green propellants (environmentally friendly options), and hypergolic propellants (high-performance fuels), and cryogenic propellants.
• Conduct comprehensive studies on the material compatibility, performance optimization, and safety aspects of these propellants.
• Develop a reputation as a trusted resource in the area of expertise who can be relied on to provide thoughtful technical guidance to non-experts.
• Translate industry best practices, scientific literature and lab based experiments into actionable technical recommendations to engineers across a variety of functions.
• Take advantage of continuing education opportunities to fill knowledge gaps in well developed and cutting edge technology areas.
• Oversee the testing and evaluation of propellants in laboratory settings, ensuring adherence to industry standards and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with engineers and other scientists to integrate propellant technologies into spacecraft design and development.
• Stay current on the latest advancements in propulsion chemistry and contribute to the development of new research initiatives.
• Program calibration curves into analytical equipment utilizing internal and externally certified chemical standards.
• Lead R&D on new or modified techniques as necessary to meet customer requirements.
• Perform evaluation and qualification of new instrumentation.
• Develop methods and write standard operation procedures for analytical equipment.
• Verify accuracy of all production analysis performed on analytical equipment.
• Supervise laboratory operation, ensuring efficient and safe execution of all tasks.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals to communicate findings and recommendations effectively.

Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) Responsibilities:

• Expected to assist in the implementation of EHS Values and policy statements and accompanying principles.
• Comply with all department, facility, corporate and regulatory EHS regulations.
• Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report all job related illness and injuries (Per Employee Handbook).
• Report all safety, health and environmental concerns to your supervisor in a timely manner.
• Attend all EHS training.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on propellants, fuels, or combustion.
• Typically 14 years of experience in a research and development environment, preferably within the aerospace industry.
• Proven experience in the formulation, testing, and analysis of propellants, including both green and hypergolic types.
• In-depth knowledge of propulsion chemistry, kinetics, thermodynamics, statistics and data analysis, and material compatibility principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong focus on safety protocols.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to effectively manage a team and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Experience in chemical analysis instrument operation and method development, such as ICP-MS, GC-MS, IC, FTIR or related techniques.
• Willing to train for and maintain DOT hazmat ground shipper certification.
• The ability to pass BATFE background check to obtain explosives credentials may be required.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance may be required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of scientific principles and practices
• Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments
• Documented record of accomplishments in the relevant field
• Proven ability to solve complex analytical problems and provide solutions that meet technical objectives

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters or Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field with a strong focus on propellants, fuels, or combustion with minimum 8 years of experience.
• Knowledge or experience applying process safety management (PSM), Hazard Analysis, process piping code, pressure vessel code, NFPA and AMSE codes for chemical processing facilities is a positive

Physical/Mental/Emotional Requirements:

• Frequently walk, sit, stand, climb stairs and steps
• Frequently repeat same hand, arm, and finger motion many times to include finger and hand dexterity
• Rarely lifting or carrying up to 50 lbs.

Working Conditions:

• Rarely exposed to outdoor elements (high/low temperatures, sun, rain/snow, etc.)
• Frequently exposed to fumes or hazardous chemicals/materials
• Rarely exposed to loud noises

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 offers annual incentive pay based upon performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 8%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.
Estimated Starting Salary Range:
$144,936.50 - $199,287.69
At Sierra Space we are at the very doorstep of unlocking the future and the work in front of us is hard, but it is truly important and meaningful. Achieving our mission requires dedication, relentless pursuit of a dream and an unwavering passion for pushing the boundaries to accomplish what others might believe to be impossible. We seek those who too, Dare to Dream and will join us in a pursuit to achieve the extraordinary.
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.