ADCS Engineer

Catalyx Space Inc.; Ahmedabad; On-site; INR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A space technology company in Ahmedabad is seeking an experienced ADCS Engineer to design and implement attitude determination and control algorithms for nanosatellites. The role involves developing control logic, simulating dynamics, and integrating sensors to maintain satellite orientation. Candidates should possess a degree in Aerospace or related fields and have 2–5 years of experience in ADCS systems. Proficiency in tools like MATLAB and Python is highly valued.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years of experience working on ADCS systems for satellites.
• Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, control theory, and spacecraft attitude dynamics.
• Familiar with embedded implementation and communication protocols.

Responsibilities

• Design and simulate attitude control algorithms for nanosatellites.
• Develop attitude estimation filters using sensor data.
• Select, size, and integrate ADCS hardware including sensors.

Skills

Attitude control algorithms

Satellite dynamics modeling

Embedded implementation

Analytical skills

Education

B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech in Aerospace, Electronics, Controls, Mechatronics

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

C/C++

Job description

We're building AWS for space, providing space experiments and technology demonstrations across LEO, deep space, and lunar orbit.

Our offerings include unmanned labs, testbeds for both dedicated and rideshare missions, and re-entry capsules for payload retrieval.

We simplify access to space with affordable pricing, end-to-end solutions, no minimum mass limits, zero integration fees, and quick deployment (6 months or less).

We serve biopharma, semiconductors, materials science, defense, and more.

Job Description

We are looking for a driven ADCS Engineer with experience in developing, simulating, and implementing attitude determination and control algorithms for nanosatellites or CubeSats. You will be responsible for designing control logic, simulating satellite dynamics, integrating sensors and actuators, and ensuring the satellite maintains desired orientation in orbit. This role requires strong analytical, modeling, and embedded implementation skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and simulate attitude control algorithms for nanosatellites.
• Develop attitude estimation filters such as EKF, TRIAD, QUEST using sensor data.
• Select, size, and integrate ADCS hardware including magnetorquers, reaction wheels, gyros, star trackers, and sun sensors.
• Model spacecraft dynamics and validate control system performance using MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or C++.
• Implement ADCS firmware on onboard flight computers.
• Support HIL (hardware-in-the-loop) and SIL (software-in-the-loop) testing for flight readiness.
• Perform FMECA (Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis) to ensure ADCS reliability and robustness.
• Coordinate with mechanical, thermal, and mission teams to define attitude modes and constraints.
• Work with procurement to identify, evaluate, and source ADCS components and sensors.
• Prepare and maintain detailed documentation for ADCS design, simulation, testing, and flight operations.
• Analyze in-orbit telemetry and tune control parameters post-launch for improved pointing accuracy.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• B.E./B.Tech or M.E./M.Tech in Aerospace, Electronics, Controls, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 2–5 years of experience working on ADCS systems for satellites.
• Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, control theory, and spacecraft attitude dynamics.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or C/C++.
• Familiar with embedded implementation and communication protocols.
• Hands-on experience with inertial sensors and actuator control.

Nice to Have (Preferred)

• Practical experience with reaction wheel control or magnetorquer boards.
• Knowledge of Kalman filters and high-fidelity spacecraft modeling.
• Familiarity with STK, GMAT, or Orekit for orbit and attitude visualization.
• Experience working on spaceflight missions with in-orbit validation of ADCS systems.