Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer – Hypersonics & Space

Leidos; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a Flight Dynamicist to develop 3DOF/6DOF models, perform trajectory design, and validate GNC algorithms for missiles, hypersonic and space systems. You’ll work across disciplines to support concept development, testing, and mission planning in a fast-paced defense environment.

The role requires 8–10 years in flight dynamics, strong modeling skills, and an active Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited aerospace/Mechanical Engineering degree required.
• 8–10 years of flight dynamics/trajectory analysis experience.
• Experience developing 3DOF/6DOF vehicle simulations.
• Strong knowledge of flight mechanics and orbital dynamics.
• Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, and aerospace tools.
• Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain higher.

Responsibilities

• Develop 3DOF/6DOF flight dynamics models to evaluate vehicle performance across the flight envelope.
• Design trajectory optimization for hypersonic, missile, launch, and space systems.
• Create and validate GNC algorithms including autopilot logic and terminal guidance.
• Develop high-fidelity simulations for concept development, requirements analysis, and test planning.
• Conduct aerodynamic, propulsion, mass properties, and environment analyses to identify risks.
• Perform flight mechanics analyses including stability, separation dynamics, and reentry scenarios.
• Integrate mission-level models within modeling/simulation frameworks and test architectures.
• Support flight test planning, pre/post-flight predictions, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate requirements into designs.
• Assist in technical proposals and customer engagements.

Skills

Flight dynamics modeling

Trajectory design

GNC algorithms

High-fidelity simulations

Collaborative teamwork

Proposal support

Education

ABET-accredited aerospace/ mechanical engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

STK

GMAT

FORTRAN

C/C++

Job description

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a Flight Dynamicist to develop 3DOF/6DOF models, perform trajectory design, and validate GNC algorithms for missiles, hypersonic and space systems. You’ll work across disciplines to support concept development, testing, and mission planning in a fast-paced defense environment.

The role requires 8–10 years in flight dynamics, strong modeling skills, and an active Secret clearance.