Space Situational Awareness Engineer

NewSpace Technical; Barcelona; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

NewSpace Technical is seeking a Flight Dynamics Software / Space Situational Awareness Engineer to advance orbit propagation, OD, and sensor fusion in a hybrid Europe-wide setting.

The role emphasizes integration of multi-source data, validation campaigns, and collaboration with software and aerospace engineers to deliver scalable SSA solutions. A strong background in astrodynamics and programming in Python/Java/Fortran is required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Space Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or Applied Physics.
• 5+ years of space systems or flight dynamics experience; exceptional profiles may be considered with 3+ years.
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of astrodynamics and orbital mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize orbit propagation and orbit determination algorithms.
• Integrate data from multiple sources for SSA capabilities.
• Validate and verify algorithms for performance improvements.
• Collaborate with software, aerospace, and data specialists on mission-critical systems.
• Support transition of research concepts into scalable software.

Skills

Python

Java

Fortran

Education

Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Space Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or Applied Physics

Job description

Flight Dynamics Software / Space Situational Awareness Engineer

Location: Germany / Spain (Hybrid)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About the Role

Our client, an innovative NewSpace technology company developing advanced solutions for space sustainability and satellite operations, is seeking a Flight Dynamics Software / Space Situational Awareness Engineer.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize advanced algorithms for orbit propagation, orbit determination (OD), sensor fusion, covariance modelling, and uncertainty quantification.
• Integrate and process data from multiple sources to improve space situational awareness capabilities.
• Develop methods to create accurate representations of the orbital environment and space object behaviour.
• Conduct validation and verification campaigns to assess and improve algorithm performance.
• Support the transition of research concepts and prototype algorithms into reliable, scalable software solutions.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers, aerospace engineers, and data specialists to deliver mission-critical capabilities.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of orbital safety and space traffic management technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Space Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in space systems, flight dynamics, astrodynamics, orbital mechanics, or related fields. Candidates with exceptional profiles may be considered with 3+ years of experience.
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of astrodynamics, orbital mechanics, and flight dynamics.
• Experience with scientific programming using one or more of the following languages: Python, Java, Fortran (90+) or equivalent.
• Experience developing technical solutions within a research-driven or engineering-focused environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Valid right to work within Europe.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) or Space Situational Awareness (SSA) systems.
• Experience working with satellite operators, space agencies, or commercial space organisations.
• Knowledge of space object catalogues, sensor data processing, or orbital data analysis.
• Understanding of space policy, regulations, and compliance frameworks.
• Experience applying AI/ML techniques to anomaly detection, pattern recognition, or orbital prediction.
• Passion for improving the sustainability and long-term accessibility of space.

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to work on innovative technologies supporting the future of space operations.
• High levels of technical ownership and the ability to influence engineering solutions.
• Collaborative environment alongside experienced aerospace engineers and scientists.
• Flexible hybrid working options.
• Access to professional development, training, and industry events.
• The opportunity to contribute to projects addressing some of the biggest challenges facing the space industry.