Software Quality Engineer 3

United Launch Alliance; Centennial (CO); On-site; USD 94,862 - 158,103; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Discretionary annual incentive bonus

Generous paid time off

Flexible work environments

9/80 schedule

Job summary

United Launch Alliance is seeking a Software Quality Engineer 3 to lead software quality assurance for launch vehicle programs in Colorado. You will ensure software meets safety, reliability, and mission assurance requirements while guiding cross-functional teams through the SDLC.

Responsibilities include reviewing requirements and design artifacts, performing root-cause analysis, and supporting audits and gate decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college/university.
• 4+ years of experience in software quality assurance, software engineering, or systems engineering.
• Experience with Python and C/C++, and Git frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead software quality assurance activities across the full software lifecycle.
• Ensure compliance with ULA quality standards and aerospace standards (AS9100, DO-178C, NASA/DoD).
• Review and approve software artifacts, test plans, and verification results.
• Identify quality risks early and develop mitigation strategies for mission-critical software.
• Lead RCCA/CAPA for software issues and audit findings.
• Support readiness reviews and gate decisions with SQA inputs.

Skills

Python

C/C++

Communication

Root cause analysis

Aerospace lifecycle

Stakeholder influence

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Tools

Git

Linux

Job description

Job Overview & Responsibilities

At ULA, as a Software Quality Engineer 3 is a senior member of ULA's Software Quality Assurance organization responsible for ensuring the integrity, reliability, and compliance of software used across ULA launch vehicles, ground systems, mission operations, and supporting infrastructure. This position provides technical leadership across programs, supports mission‑critical software development efforts, and drives continuous improvement within ULA's software assurance processes. As a Software Quality Engineer 3, you will collaborate closely with Software Engineering, System Safety, Systems Engineering, Mission Operations, Suppliers, and Program teams to verify that software meets safety, reliability, and mission assurance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead software quality assurance activities for assigned programs covering the full software lifecycle—from requirements definition through verification, release, and mission readiness.
• Ensure program compliance with ULA software quality standards, engineering processes, mission assurance requirements, and applicable aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, DO-178C, NASA, DoD).
• Review and approve software requirements, design artifacts, code inspection packages, test plans, test procedures, and verification results.
• Engage early in the lifecycle to identify quality risks and mitigation strategies for mission‑critical software.
• Lead root‑cause analysis and corrective/preventive action (RCCA/CAPA) for software‑related issues, anomalies, and audit findings.
• Support readiness and exit reviews (e.g., TRR, BCR/SRA) and deliver SQA inputs for gate decisions.
• Participate in build reviews, configuration audits, and release readiness assessments for flight and ground software products.
• Support internal, customer, supplier, and regulatory audits by preparing artifacts and representing the SQA organization.
• Support internal SAFe Agile ceremonies and execution of Agile practices throughout the SDLC.
• Lead internal Process Evaluations to assess Software Engineering process execution as well as communication of observations/findings.
• Develop and improve ULA SQA procedures, templates, metrics, and review processes to strengthen mission assurance.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to the professional development of the SQA organization.
• Maintain strong partnerships with software engineering, systems engineering, product teams, and Mission Success organizations.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving ability
• Ability to lead cross‑functional technical efforts
• High attention to detail, especially with mission‑critical artifacts
• Excellent collaboration and communication
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Commitment to safety, quality, and mission success

Required Education

• Bachelor

Required Years of Experience

Minimum of 4 years of related work experience

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field from an accredited college or university
• 4+ years of experience in software quality assurance, software engineering, or systems engineering
• Experience with coding languages Python, C/C++ as well as Git frameworks
• Experience with Linux environments and use of CLI
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders in both engineering and program environments
• Strong understanding of aerospace or safety‑critical software lifecycles, including Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid development
• Demonstrated experience leading root cause analysis using structured problem‑solving methodologies
• Familiarity with industry standards such as AS9100, DO‑178C, CMMI, NASA‑STD‑8739.x, USSF SMC‑S‑012 and 021 or similar guidelines

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with aerospace, launch vehicles, space systems, or regulated high‑reliability engineering environments
• Experience working with software suppliers or performing supplier quality oversight
• Experience with software testing, SDLC and CI/CD environment
• Knowledge of mission assurance principles, flight software verification, ground system software, embedded systems, or real‑time control systems
• Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification

Summary Salary Range (for ULA - Denver only)

$94,862.00 - $158,103.00

What makes ULA different?

Because we understand launch success comes through the collective efforts of a team, we seek the best to join us. We value ethics, ingenuity, engagement and professional development for employees at all levels.

Benefits

• 401(k) match plus an additional employer contribution
• Discretionary annual incentive bonus for eligible employees
• Generous paid time off
• Flexible work environments
• Most salaried ULA team members work a “9/80 schedule,” meaning they enjoy every other Friday off.

Security Clearance / International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Therefore, all applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in ITAR 22 CFR 120.62 (e.g., U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or protected individual). See 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) and 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) for additional information.

ULA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

ULA is a participant in the federal E‑Verify Program.

Posters in PDF format pertaining to this program can be accessed by clicking on the links identified below. E‑Verify Participation poster (English / Spanish) and Right to Work Poster (English / Spanish).

Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act

A hired candidate may opt out of this process by notifying the hiring manager in writing at the time the offer is accepted.