Astrodynamics Engineer

SAIC; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC is seeking an Astrodynamics Engineer to support satellite programs in Chantilly, VA. The role requires expertise in astrodynamics and orbit determination, with proficiency in Python or C++.

You will conduct independent studies, evaluate external results, and present technical briefings to customers within a dynamic, mission-driven team. Minimum TS/SCI with poly clearance is required or the ability to obtain it.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, or Physics; 2+ years experience or Masters with 0 years experience.
• Ability to program in Python or C++, or quickly learn by transferring skills from another language.
• Must collaborate well with other engineers in a mutually supportive environment.
• Must refine analyses in response to internal and external peer reviews.

Responsibilities

• Independent trade studies and technical assessments.
• Evaluating results provided by external teams.
• Identifying new concepts for evaluation.
• Presenting actionable technical briefings to customers.
• May support other prime contracts as necessary.

Skills

Astrodynamics

Orbit determination

Mathematical modeling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering / Applied Math / Physics

Tools

Python

C++

Job description

Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI

Job ID 2616992 Location Chantilly, VA, US Date Posted 2026-09-18 Category Engineering and Sciences Subcategory Modeling/Sim Engr Schedule Full-Time Shift Day Job Travel No Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain TS/SCI with Poly Potential for Remote Work ORA_ON_SITE

Join a mission-driven analysis team supporting multiple satellite programs at the forefront of national innovation. Our team is driving development of novel satellite missions that directly support national priorities. Operating within a supportive Government environment, we benefit from frequent direct access to senior Government decision-makers. SAIC is seeking Astrodynamics Engineers to skillfully solve complex modeling and simulation challenges to deliver critical analyses. Our multi-discipline team collaborates to deliver comprehensive actionable insights to our customers. Success requires expertise in astrodynamics and/or orbit determination, as well as the ability to use programming languages such as Python or C++. At SAIC’s location in Chantilly, Virginia, our Astrodynamics Engineers work side-by-side with experts in propulsion, radars, optics, AI/ML, cloud computing, GPUs and more. Astrodynamics Engineers with experience including orbit maneuver design, Rendezvous and Proximity Operations, maneuver detection, conjunction assessment, and High Performance Computing, will be especially well-prepared to excel.

The Team’s Responsibilities Include

• Independent trade studies and technical assessments
• Evaluating results provided by external teams
• Identifying new concepts
• Presenting actionable technical briefings to customers
• Additionally, our astrodynamics analysts may routinely support other prime contracts as-necessary

Qualifications

Education

• In the field(s) of Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or a related technical area - Bachelors and two (2) years or more experience; Masters and 0 years related experience
• Ability to program in Python or C++, or to very quickly learn by transferring skills from a different language
• Must be able to collaborate well with other engineers in a mutually supportive environment
• Must be able to refine analyses if necessary in response to formal internal and external peer reviews

Clearance

• TS/SCI, should have current or be able to pass CI polygraph test

Target salary range $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.