Optimize spacecraft trajectories to satisfy mission requirements while balancing delta-V budgets, mission duration, and payload constraints
Design and maintain mission designs from the conceptual phase through the end of spacecraft mission operations
Develop algorithms to target maneuvers that achieve spacecraft mission objectives
Create maneuver error budgets and perform sensitivity analysis to assess robustness to execution uncertainties
Formulate and analyze contingency maneuver plans and abort scenarios for off-nominal conditions
Interface with cross-discipline teams to translate maneuver plans into executable command sequences and operational procedures
Serve as a flight dynamics operator for spacecraft missions and perform maneuver reconstruction to improve spacecraft models
Perform verification and validation of flight dynamics models and software using analytical solutions, benchmarks, flight data, and unit tests
Author technical documentation and analysis reports that communicate flight dynamics concepts and results to diverse audiences

Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field
5-8 years of experience in spacecraft flight dynamics with significant depth in mission design or maneuver planning
Experience supporting operational spacecraft missions through multiple mission phases
Advanced understanding of orbital mechanics theory and applications
Understanding of spacecraft attitude control and its impact on maneuver execution accuracy
Strong understanding of targeting and optimization methods
Knowledge of estimation theory and uncertainty modeling
Experience in software development and modeling/simulation for spaceflight applications
Working knowledge of Python and Linux
Proficiency with one or more commercial trajectory design software tools (STK, FreeFlyer, GMAT, or similar)

Flight Dynamics Engineer III – Trajectory

Key skills