Autonomous Space Ops Planner & Simulation Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance program

Retirement contributions

Flexible work-life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Space Operations Planning and Simulation Engineer to work on autonomous spacecraft operations. This role involves enhancing a software framework for science observation planning, scheduling, and spacecraft commanding.

You'll collaborate with analysts and engineers to design solutions that improve mission outcomes, affecting national security. Candidates should preferably have a strong background in orbital mechanics and software development, especially in Java. The position offers competitive salary and benefits including a focus on work-life balance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Strong programming experience in Java (or similar object-oriented languages).
• 4+ years of experience in software development for simulations or analysis tools.
• Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and spacecraft operations.
• Ability to design, implement, test, and document software features.
• Strong problem-solving skills in a team environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI+poly level security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement new modules for autonomous planning and scheduling.
• Extend simulation capabilities for orbital mechanics and sensor observations.
• Develop algorithms for resource optimization and command sequence generation.
• Integrate with MATLAB and existing modeling tools.
• Collaborate with mission analysts and systems engineers.
• Document and present new capabilities.

Skills

Programming in Java

Problem-solving skills

Experience in simulations

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

MATLAB

Linux

Job description

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Space Operations Planning and Simulation Engineer to work on autonomous spacecraft operations. This role involves enhancing a software framework for science observation planning, scheduling, and spacecraft commanding.

You'll collaborate with analysts and engineers to design solutions that improve mission outcomes, affecting national security. Candidates should preferably have a strong background in orbital mechanics and software development, especially in Java. The position offers competitive salary and benefits including a focus on work-life balance.