Astrodynamics Engineer

Systems Planning & Analysis; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. in Chantilly, VA seeks an Astrodynamics Engineer to support a dynamic space program. You will contribute to orbit strategies, rendezvous planning, and trajectory analyses across satellite missions, collaborating with experts in propulsion, sensing, and HPC.

The role requires US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly, a bachelor’s in a technical field, and 7+ years of aerospace experience. On-site core hours apply; opportunity to contribute to mission-critical analysis.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance
• Bachelor’s degree in a technical field
• 7+ years of aerospace and defense experience
• Experience with spacecraft operations and mission planning
• Ability to develop metrics, dashboards, or performance reporting tools
• Ability to report to Chantilly, VA on-site
• Independent trade studies and technical assessments
• Experience reviewing algorithms and presenting technical briefings

Responsibilities

• Support space program operations, integration, sustainment, and performance
• Conduct orbit analysis, including rendezvous and trajectory studies
• Leverage SDA sensor data for orbit determination of satellites
• Collaborate with astrodynamics, propulsion, launch, sensing, and HPC experts

Skills

Python

C++

US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related field

Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related field

Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter . Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

Space and Intelligence Division

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.!

Intelligence Programs Group (IPG)

The Intelligence Programs Group (IPG), part of SPA’s Space and Intelligence Division, is a specialized provider of systems engineering and trusted advisory services to the Space and National Intelligence community. We utilize mission-proven, data-driven advisory tools and capabilities. We provide highly technical support to ensure the government acquires cutting edge technology necessary for our National Defense. Our portfolio includes the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Come where you will be part of our high-caliber team!

Astrodynamics Engineer

SPA is looking for a Astrodynamics Engineer with Space Domain experience in Chantilly, VA to support a very dynamic and innovative space program office. This postion supports the operational readiness, integration, sustainment, and performance of space-based systems throughout their lifecycle.

The successful candidate will work with the modeling and simulation team to conduct a wide variety of analyses in support of government satellite programs in Earth's orbit including strategies for significant orbit changes, multi-satellite Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO), Leverage Space Domain Awareness (SDA) sensor data to perform Orbit Determination on maneuvering satellites. You will wor k with experts in astrodynamics, propulsion systems, launch trajectories, sensing, and High Performance Computing (HPC).

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance at date of application
• please discuss specific polygraph requirements with an SPA Talent Acquisition professional
• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or a related technical field
• 7+ years of experience supporting spacecraft operations, systems integration, mission operations, satellite systems, or related aerospace and defense programs
• Experience supporting operational environments involving spacecraft systems, ground systems, mission planning systems
• Demonstrated experience analyzing operational data and developing metrics, dashboards, or performance reporting tools
• Use programming languages such as Python, C++, or others to leverage existing analysis tools and develop new ones
• Conduct independent trade studies and technical assessments
• Review and validate algorithms and results provided by external teams
• Develop and optionally present actionable technical briefings
• Flexible schedule: On-site core collaboration hours from 10am to 3pm
• Ability to report to designated work location in Chantilly, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

Desired Qualifications

• Masters Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or a related technical field
• Experience in satelitte orbits and trajectories
• Experience working with High Power Computer systems

Pay Range Information

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $175,000.00/Yr. - USD $210,000.00/Yr.