Flight Dynamics Engineer

Protingent; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Protingent is seeking a Flight Dynamics Engineer in Los Angeles, CA to lead high-fidelity trajectory analysis and attitude control development for spacecraft. You will build models, tune control laws, and coordinate with ADCS, propulsion, and avionics teams to ensure smooth integration and operation of flight dynamics within the spacecraft bus.

The ideal candidate has a strong aerospace background, 5+ years in flight dynamics, experience with mission design software and Python/C++/MATLAB, and a

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft flight dynamics and attitude control.
• Experience with propulsion system dynamics and GNC interfaces.
• Proficiency in Python, C++, and MATLAB for modeling flight dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Lead integration and interface work for ADCS, propulsion, and hardware GNC components.
• Develop high-fidelity flight dynamics models for trajectory analysis and propellant budgeting.
• Develop and tune control laws for pointing, detumbling, and station-keeping.
• Coordinate with AI&T and Avionics teams to ensure proper software integration.
• Transition to on-console operations and diagnose flight dynamics anomalies.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and document results.

Skills

Python

C++

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor's or advanced degree in aerospace engineering or electrical engineering

Tools

Mission design software

Flight dynamics simulation tools

Job description

Position Title: Flight Dynamics Engineer

Protingent has an exciting direct hire opportunity for a Flight Dynamics Engineer with our client in Los Angeles, CA.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead technical integration, vendor management, interface and performance requirements for ADCS, propulsion systems, and hardware GNC components.


• Develop high-fidelity flight dynamics models to execute trajectory analysis, momentum management, and propellant budgeting using tools like STK or custom Python simulations.


• Develop and tune control laws for pointing requirements, detumbling, and station-keeping.


• Work with the AI&T and Avionics teams to ensure flight dynamics hardware is integrated and calibrated correctly within the spacecraft bus.


• Transition from the design and simulation phase into “on-console” operations, handling flight dynamics-related anomalies and maneuvers.


• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.


• Document design processes, test results, and system performance.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field.


• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft flight dynamics, including experience with attitude control and propulsion systems.


• Proficiency in mission design software and flight dynamics simulation tools.


• Proficiency in programming (Python, C++, or MATLAB) for modeling flight dynamics and flight software integration.


• Experience working in clean room environments and adhering to ESD protocols.


• Demonstrated leadership skills, including mentoring junior engineers and driving innovation in engineering processes.


• Strong ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic environment while maintaining a positive and professional attitude.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Job Details

• Job Type: Direct Hire


• Location: Los Angeles, CA


• Salary Range: $130K-170K

ITAR obligations are associated with this role, U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a) (1), (3) is required.

About Protingent

Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation — from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We’re passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.