Linux Systems Administrator – Dream Chaser Mission Systems (Systems Engineer III)

Pace Industries, LLC; Louisville (CO); On-site; USD 119,000 - 164,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

medical, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with 150% match up to 6%

life insurance

3 weeks paid time off

Job summary

Sierra Space in Colorado is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator to support mission-critical IT systems, networks, and real-time spacecraft ground software in a flight-critical environment. The role focuses on Linux administration (RHEL/CentOS), virtualization, and automation scripting.

You will work on-site at our Louisville, CO location, collaborate with NASA during mission preparation, and help ensure secure, reliable operations.

Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience with VMware, Docker, Python, RF, Cisco switches, and Palo Alto firewalls.
• Experience with command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA).
• Proficient with Linux and Windows operating systems (Linux depth required).
• Strong IT system and network administration and real-time mission support.

Responsibilities

• Linux-based servers and workstations setup, patching, hardening, and troubleshooting.
• Manage virtualized Linux environments (VMware) and containerized apps (Docker).
• Support mission-critical IT systems, networking, and real-time mission simulations and operations.

Skills

Linux and Windows administration

Real-time mission support

Systems engineering principles

Requirements management / V&V

Team collaboration in multi‑discipline

Security clearance eligibility

Engineering fundamentals

Education

BS in Computer Science or Systems Engineering

Tools

VMware

Docker

InControl

Amergint

ARKA telemetry

Cisco switches

Palo Alto firewalls

Job description

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 Sierra Space is seeking a Linux Systems Administrator to support mission-critical IT systems, networks, and infrastructure in a space flight mission critical environment. This role focuses on Linux administration of real-time spacecraft ground systems and applications as well as certifying as a Ground Control (GC) flight controller.

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.

Key Responsibilities

• Linux Systems Administration: Administer, configure, and maintain Linux-based servers and workstations (RHEL/CentOS) Patch, harden (STIG compliance), tune performance, and troubleshoot Linux systems Manage virtualized Linux environments (VMware) and containerized applications (Docker) Write and maintain Bash/Python scripts for automation, monitoring, and administration
• Mission & Network Support: Provide end-to-end support of mission-critical IT systems, infrastructure, and networks Configure and support networking components (Cisco switches, Palo Alto firewalls) Administer command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA) Support real-time missions and pre-mission simulations Provide Flight & Test Operations end-user support
• Documentation & Process: Develop documentation for system design, operations, and training Refine operational concepts and processes Perform general systems engineering and integration tasks Collaborate closely with NASA during all phases of mission preparation and planning

Minimum Qualifications

• BS in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or related discipline + typically 5 or more years of relevant experience (relevant experience may count toward degree; relevant advanced degree may count toward experience)
• Experience with VMware, Docker, Python, RF, Cisco switches, and Palo Alto firewalls
• Experience with command and telemetry software (InControl & Amergint | ARKA)
• Proficient with Linux and Windows operating systems (Linux depth required)
• Experience in IT system & network administration, data management, software configuration, and real-time mission support
• Practical knowledge of engineering principles and practices
• Experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams
• Knowledge of requirements management, functional requirements parsing/derivation/allocation, systems design/integration, technical risk identification and management, and V & V principles
• This role requires you to work on-site at our Louisville, CO location
• Ability to obtain/maintain Secret or higher U.S. Security Clearance may be required
• Must pass NASA background check and maintain NASA clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Linux certification (RHCSA, RHCE, LFCS, or equivalent)
• Python Scripting experience
• Security hardening experience (DISA STIGs, CIS Benchmarks)
• Configuration management/automation tools (Ansible, Puppet, or similar)
• Real-time operations, spacecraft ground systems, or control center operations experience
• Experience managing enterprise IT applications, systems, and networking at scale
• Knowledge of ground-to-space communication systems and control center development
• Proficiency in Jira and Confluence
• INCOSE certification or equivalent experience
• Background in Aerospace and Defense industry
• Experience with baseline definition/maturation in complex development settings, including trade studies
• Exposure to establishing and tracking Technical Performance Measurements (TPMs)

Compensation

Pay Range: $119,064.00 - $163,713.00 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.

Benefits

• medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%
• life insurance
• 3 weeks paid time off
• and more

About Sierra Space

About Sierra Space 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.

Application Deadline

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.