Flight Dynamics Engineer: Trajectory & Astrodynamics Expert

The Aerospace Corporation; Chantilly (VA); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 166,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health care and wellness

Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

401(k) Plan with Company match

Flexible spending accounts

Relocation assistance

Professional growth and development

Education assistance

Inclusive work environment

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Member of the Technical Staff – Flight Mechanics to design and optimize trajectories for launch vehicles and spacecraft, applying astrodynamics and advanced modeling to support national security missions. The role is based in Chantilly, VA with hybrid work arrangements across U.S.

sites. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree, several years of experience, strong programming skills, and the ability to obtain security clearances.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in flight mechanics, astrodynamics, trajectory optimization, or related fields.
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages: C, C++, Fortran, Python, Linux, or MATLAB.
• Must be able to obtain US security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.
• Willing to travel domestically about 10% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Trajectory design and optimization for launch vehicles and spacecraft.
• Astrodynamics and orbital mechanics analyses including orbit propagation and maneuvers.
• Develop and apply flight mechanics tools and algorithms.
• Support R&D requests and collaborate with partners to deliver solutions.
• Utilize external tools to augment internal capabilities.
• Provide operational support for nominal and off-nominal missions.

Skills

C

C++

Fortran

Python

Linux

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical/astronautical engineering, physics or applied mathematics

Tools

ASSET

GPOPS-II

SNOPT

POST

OTIS

Copernicus

GMAT

EMTG

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Member of the Technical Staff – Flight Mechanics to design and optimize trajectories for launch vehicles and spacecraft, applying astrodynamics and advanced modeling to support national security missions. The role is based in Chantilly, VA with hybrid work arrangements across U.S.

sites. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree, several years of experience, strong programming skills, and the ability to obtain security clearances.