Principal Ground System Engineer

True AnomalyDenver, Colorado, United StatesOnsite

A new space race has begun. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build innovative technology that solves the next generation of engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability.

OUR MISSIONThe peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all.OUR VALUES

Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity
What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results
It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together

YOUR MISSIONWe are seeking a highly experienced Principal Program Manager with expertise in Ground Systems Engineering to lead critical strategic program initiatives and technical development for advanced cloud-based ground infrastructure systems designed for rapid, resilient satellite command and control. The role will drive the effective integration and implementation of agile, responsive satellite operations, significantly enhancing space security and national defense capabilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Program Management:

Provide strategic leadership and direction for highly complex ground systems programs supporting dynamic satellite operations.
Develop and oversee comprehensive program baselines including cost, schedule, and technical performance.
Lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams, including senior-level systems engineers, cybersecurity specialists, communications experts, IT professionals, mission operations personnel, and finance managers.
Manage subcontractor relationships, ensuring exceptional quality and timely delivery aligned with strategic objectives.
Conduct executive-level internal and external program reviews, offering strategic recommendations and insights.

Advanced Ground System Design & Architecture:

Partner closely with internal executive teams, senior stakeholders, and external partners to define strategic mission objectives, operational concepts, and high-level system requirements.
Direct architecture design and development of sophisticated cloud-based ground system solutions enabling rapid, resilient satellite command and control operations.
Oversee strategic trade studies, feasibility assessments, and comprehensive risk analyses to achieve resilience and rapid responsiveness.
Ensure seamless integration of advanced cloud-based software and hardware interfaces with diverse satellite platforms.

System Integration, Testing & Operations Excellence:

Lead high-stakes integration, testing, and validation phases, ensuring the operational readiness and scalability of cloud infrastructure.
Develop strategic operational procedures and implement best practices for the deployment, maintenance, and anomaly resolution of ground systems.
Facilitate coordination among satellite operators, mission teams, and stakeholders to maintain real-time operational excellence and mission readiness.

Cybersecurity & Compliance:

Ensure ground systems rigorously comply with cybersecurity standards, regulations, and compliance requirements.
Provide strategic guidance and collaborate with cybersecurity teams to perform risk assessments and implement comprehensive protective measures aligned with DoD, NASA, and other pertinent policies.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, Management, or related technical discipline.
Minimum of 12 years experience (10 years with a graduate degree) managing aerospace, engineering, or software development programs.
At least 7 years specialized experience in Ground Systems Engineering, ideally focused on satellite or missile systems utilizing cloud infrastructure.
Demonstrated deep expertise in cloud-based command and control systems, agile software methodologies, satellite operations, and relevant technologies (RF, SATCOM, TT&C, TCP/IP, CCSDS).
Proven executive-level leadership experience managing large, cross-functional teams and successfully delivering complex, strategic programs.
Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, executive presentation, and communication skills.
Active U.S. security clearance (TS/SCI or higher).

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Master's Degree in Engineering, Management, or related technical field.
Extensive experience with Space RCO, Space Systems Command, or similar government space defense programs.
Deep familiarity with ground system standards (CCSDS, MIL-STD), agile acquisition frameworks, and advanced cybersecurity protocols.
Proven track record managing geographically dispersed, agile development teams at scale.

COMPENSATION

Base Salary: $195,000 - $255,000
Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Location—Successful candidates will be located near Denver. While we observe a hybrid work environment, some work must be done on site.
Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below.

#LI-Hybrid

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you 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.We value diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives and harness these qualities to create extraordinary impact. True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law.

If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Life at True Anomaly

True Anomaly is revolutionizing space domain awareness, security, and sustainability by developing full-stack, mission-driven technologies that protect the freedoms and interests of the United States and its allies. We operate at the intersection of autonomous vehicles and big data to deliver unmatched capabilities on-orbit for decision advantage here on earth.

Thrive Here & What We ValueInnovation and speed | Ambitious results | Competitive advantage through team collaboration</s> | Observes a hybrid work environment and expects three days per week in office at the Company’s Denver, CO headquarters or future Los Angeles, CA hub</s> | One of innovation and speed, so if you are looking for a place that allows you to reach your full potential, this is the job to consider.</s> | Values innovation and creativity | Challenges assumptions to deliver ambitious results | Emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration</s> | Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity | What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results | It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together</s> | Be the offset: create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity | It's the people: our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together</s> | True Anomaly values creativity and ingenuity to create asymmetric advantages. | They challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results. | Their team is their competitive advantage, and they are better together.</s> | Their team is their competitive advantage and they are better together | They believe that the peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth</s> | Commitment to equal employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law | Value for diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives</s> | Value for diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives to create extraordinary impact.</s> | It's the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together</s> | Safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all | Build innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners.</s> | 1. Be the offset creating asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity | 2. What would it take? challenging assumptions to deliver ambitious results | 3. It's the people our team is our competitive advantage, and we are better together</s> | Value for creativity and ingenuity in solving engineering challenges | Fast-paced startup environment with a dynamic setting</s> | The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. | We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all.</s> | True Anomaly values creativity and ingenuity in solving engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges for space security and sustainability. | The company prioritizes safeguarding global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all. | The mission is to build innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. | The company seeks those with talent and ambition to contribute to the advancement of next-generation spacecraft systems.</s> | True Anomaly values diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives and harnesses these qualities to create extraordinary impact. | True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law. | True Anomaly provides benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave.</s> | Collaborate with customers, stakeholders, and internal teams to define and document mission objectives, system requirements, and operational concepts | Develop asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity | Better together as a team</s> | Safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all</s> | True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. | Team is competitive advantage and better together</s> | People are the competitive advantage</s> | People Are Our Competitive Advantage and We are Better Together | Mission-First Perspective | Conduct Architecture and System Trade Studies to Inform and Recommend Architecture Designs to Meet Company-Level Product Lines Objectives. Examples Include Constellation Sizing, Mission Design, Performance Evaluations, Feasibility Assessments, and Development of Novel Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Existing Products.</s> | Joining True Anomaly means becoming part of a dynamic, fast-growing team that values innovation and personal growth. | We offer a range of benefits to support our employees, including: Competitive salary and equity opportunities | Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance | Flexible work arrangements (hybrid and in-office options) | 401(k) retirement plans | Generous paid time off, holidays and parental leave | Professional development and learning opportunities | A culture that values mentorship, collaboration, and technical excellence</s> | Value for diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives and harnessing these qualities to create extraordinary impact.</s> | Commitment to equal employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law.</s> | Embracing being proactive rather than being reactive in problem-solving | Valuing diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds, and perspectives | Committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, maternity or related condition (including breastfeeding) or any other basis as protected by applicable law.</s> | True Anomaly offers compensation including base salary, equity, and benefits such as Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave.</s> | They believe in safeguarding global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all.</s> | Value for diversity of experience, knowledge, backgrounds and perspectives and harness these qualities to create extraordinary impact.</s> | 1. True Anomaly values creativity and ingenuity | 2. The peaceful use of space is essential for continued prosperity on Earth—from communications and finance to navigation and logistics. | 3. True Anomaly builds innovative technology at the intersection of spacecraft, software, and AI to enhance the capabilities of the U.S., its allies, and commercial partners. | 4. We safeguard global security by ensuring space access and sustainability for all.</s> | It's the People - Our Team is our Competitive Advantage and We are Better Together</s>

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