Flight Dynamics Engineer – Hypersonic & Space Systems

Leidos; Shalimar (FL); On-site; USD 87,000 - 157,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a Flight Dynamicist to develop and analyze 3DOF/6DOF flight dynamics models, perform trajectory design and optimization for hypersonic and space systems, and design robust GNC algorithms. You will build high-fidelity simulations, collaborate across disciplines, and support mission planning and test activities.

The role requires advanced modeling expertise, strong programming in MATLAB/Simulink and Python, and an active Secret clearance with potential to obtain

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution and 4 years of experience.
• Masters plus 2-4 years of experience in flight dynamics, trajectory analysis, mission design, guidance and control, modeling and simulation, or related aerospace engineering disciplines.
• Experience developing and analyzing 3DOF and/or 6DOF vehicle simulations.
• Active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain TS, as required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and analyze 3DOF and 6DOF flight dynamics models to evaluate vehicle performance, stability, controllability, and mission effectiveness across the full flight envelope.
• Perform trajectory design, optimization, and trade studies for hypersonic, missile, launch vehicle, and space systems, balancing performance, range, payload, thermal, and operational constraints.
• Design, implement, and validate guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms including autopilot logic, trajectory shaping, target engagement, and terminal guidance functions.
• Develop high-fidelity simulations and digital engineering models to support concept development, requirements analysis, mission planning, system design, verification, and test activities.
• Conduct aerodynamic, propulsion, mass properties, and environmental sensitivity analyses to assess vehicle performance and identify key design drivers and technical risks.
• Perform flight mechanics analyses including stability and control assessments, separation dynamics, staging events, atmospheric flight, reentry, and orbital mission operations as applicable.

Skills

Flight dynamics

Trajectory design

GNC algorithms

Modeling & simulation

Team collaboration

Education

ABET-accredited degree

Master's degree in aerospace or related field

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

STK

GMAT

Fortran

C/C++

Job description

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a Flight Dynamicist to develop and analyze 3DOF/6DOF flight dynamics models, perform trajectory design and optimization for hypersonic and space systems, and design robust GNC algorithms. You will build high-fidelity simulations, collaborate across disciplines, and support mission planning and test activities.

The role requires advanced modeling expertise, strong programming in MATLAB/Simulink and Python, and an active Secret clearance with potential to obtain