Principal Software Engineer – Ground Software

Sierra Space

. Design, develop, and test software applications for space systems and technologies .

Posted 9/16/2026full-timeCentennial • Colorado • United StatesLead💰 $184,628 - $253,885 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in designing, developing, and testing complex software systems for space technologies, with a strong focus on clean coding practices, software engineering processes, and technical leadership. Proficient in Agile methodologies and capable of fostering collaboration within engineering teams while ensuring adherence to coding standards and security principles.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Software Development PrinciplesAgile MethodologiesTechnical LeadershipComplex Software Systems DesignU.S. Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Multiple Programming LanguagesSoftware Engineering ProcessesAlgorithmic KnowledgePerformance TuningSystem ScalabilitySecure Coding PrinciplesUnit TestingCode Review ParticipationClean Code PracticesSoftware Application Design

Soft Skills

CollaborationMentorshipProblem-SolvingCommunicationTeam Growth

Tools & Technologies

GitVersion Control SystemsAgileScrumKanban

Industry Keywords

Space SystemsSoftware ApplicationsCoding StandardsSoftware ConfigurationSoftware Development Trends

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design, develop, and test software applications for space systems and technologies
Write clean, maintainable code adhering to best practices and coding standards
Architect and implement complex software systems to meet project requirements
Collaborate with team members to understand project needs and develop effective software solutions
Use Git and version control systems to manage code changes
Participate in code reviews and ensure code quality and development standards
Troubleshoot and resolve software-related issues
Document software configurations, processes, and procedures
Stay current with software development and space technology trends
Conduct unit tests and independently contribute to software application design and development
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers
Foster collaboration and growth within the team

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree, or master's degree plus 10 years of experience
Typically 12+ years of related experience
Extensive expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles
Ability to design, architect, implement, and test complex software systems
Expert understanding of software engineering processes, advanced algorithmic knowledge, domain-specific design patterns, performance tuning, and system scalability
Mastery of scalable, optimized code and knowledge of secure coding and system architecture principles
Ability to independently contribute to software design and development, conduct unit tests, and participate in code reviews
Experience with Agile and Scrum/Kanban methodologies
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance
U.S. Citizenship status required for employment due to security clearance requirements

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision plans
401(k) with 150% match up to 6%
Life insurance
3 weeks paid time off
Personal and professional development opportunities
Collaborative work culture
Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities