Astrodynamics Engineer (Multiple)

Apex Tk; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

APEX TK in Chantilly is seeking an Astrodynamics Engineer to join our defense-focused team. You will work with modeling and simulation colleagues on government satellite programs across Earth orbits, applying orbital mechanics and space systems knowledge.

Applicants should have a STEM degree, 2–10 years of space analytics experience, and TS/SCI with CI poly clearance. Proficiency in C++, Python, MATLAB, and related tools is essential, as you will develop analyses, present findings, and support

Qualifications

• 2–10 years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor's degree in STEM or related field.
• Active TS/SCI w/ CI Poly clearance.
• Experience performing space-related engineering analysis using listed tools.

Responsibilities

• Support government satellite programs across Earth orbits with modeling and simulation.
• Collaborate with astrodynamics, propulsion, and HPC experts.
• Develop and present technical briefings to customers.
• Use Python, C++, or similar languages to extend analysis tools.
• Conduct independent trade studies and validate results.

Skills

Orbital mechanics

Data analysis

Communication of findings

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Master's degree in STEM

Tools

C++

Python

R

SQL

PostgreSQL

Linux

MATLAB

VBA

STK

Job description

APEX TK is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Astrodynamics Engineer to join our team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects within the aerospace domain.

Responsibilities:

• Work with our modeling and simulation team to conduct a wide variety of analyses in support of government satellite programs in all types of Earth orbits
• Work with experts in astrodynamics, propulsion systems, launch trajectories, sensing, and High Performance Computing (HPC)
• Opportunities to meet with and optionally present findings to local senior government customers
• 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 present technical briefings
• Depending on their interests and skills the applicant may work on one or more of:
  • 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 satellite

Required Qualifications:

• 2-10 years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor's Degree in a STEM related field such as Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Aerospace, Computer Science, etc.
• Active Top Secret/SCI w/ CI Poly Clearance
• Experience performing space-related engineering analysis (collecting, organizing, analyzing data) using one or more of the following: C++, Python, R, SQL, PostgreSQL, Linux, MATLAB, VBA, or STK
• Ability to communicate findings and recommendations to internal and external customers
• Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
• Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in a STEM related field.
• Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.