Flight Dynamicist for Hypersonics & Space Systems

Leidos; Beavercreek (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos is seeking a skilled Flight Dynamicist to join the Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization. You will develop and analyze high-fidelity flight dynamics models for missiles, hypersonic and space systems, guiding design across the full flight envelope.

You will craft GNC algorithms, run trajectory optimization, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust digital engineering solutions and test-ready models.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in aerospace or related engineering.
• 8–10 years of experience in flight dynamics, trajectory analysis, mission design, or related aerospace disciplines.
• Experience developing and analyzing 3DOF/6DOF vehicle simulations.
• Strong understanding of flight mechanics, orbital mechanics, trajectory optimization, and vehicle performance.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, STK, GMAT, FORTRAN, C/C++ or similar engineering tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and analyze 3DOF and 6DOF flight dynamics models to evaluate performance and mission effectiveness.
• Perform trajectory design, optimization, and trade studies for hypersonic, missile, launch, and space systems.
• Design, implement, and validate guidance, navigation, and control algorithms including autopilot and terminal guidance.
• Develop high-fidelity simulations and digital engineering models to support concept development and testing.
• Conduct aerodynamic, propulsion, mass properties, and environmental analyses to identify design drivers and risks.
• Perform flight mechanics analyses including stability, separation dynamics, and reentry as applicable.
• Integrate mission-level models within modeling and simulation frameworks and hardware/software-in-the-loop environments.
• Support flight test planning, pre/post-flight analyses, and data reconstruction.
• Collaborate across disciplines to translate requirements into executable designs.
• Support technical proposals and customer engagements with technical briefings and design reviews.

Skills

Flight dynamics

Cross-functional collaboration

Trajectory analysis

Modeling and simulation

Multidisciplinary trade studies

Education

ABET-accredited Bachelor's in aerospace/mechanical/physics

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

STK

GMAT

FORTRAN

C/C++

Job description

Leidos is seeking a skilled Flight Dynamicist to join the Defense Systems Advanced Development Organization. You will develop and analyze high-fidelity flight dynamics models for missiles, hypersonic and space systems, guiding design across the full flight envelope.

You will craft GNC algorithms, run trajectory optimization, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust digital engineering solutions and test-ready models.