Senior Orbit Dynamics & Mission Analysis Engineer for Fastwater Staffing and Recruiting

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the development and execution of advanced orbit dynamics and mission analysis tasks for various space missions. Architect, design, and optimize complex satellite trajectories, maneuvers (low-thrust, impulsive), and constellation configurations using STK (including modules like Astrogator, Optimizer, Analysis Workbench) and custom tools. Develop, implement, and validate high-fidelity simulation models and analysis software using Python, MATLAB, and/or C# to support mission design, performance assessment, and trade studies. Perform and oversee specialized analyses: advanced coverage, communications link budgets, conjunction assessment and collision avoidance strategies, re-entry predictions, orbit determination, and attitude dynamics interactions. Define mission requirements related to trajectory and orbital performance; contribute to system architecture development and trade-offs. Develop novel analysis techniques and automate complex simulation workflows. Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers within the team. Prepare and present detailed technical reports, analysis results, and recommendations to internal teams, management, and external customers/stakeholders. Interface with other subsystems (GNC, Systems, Software, Operations) to ensure mission success.

Required Qualifications:

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field; Or a Bachelor's degree with significant additional relevant experience (typically 9+ years). Minimum of seven (7) years of professional, post-graduation experience directly related to orbit dynamics, astrodynamics, trajectory optimization, and space mission design and analysis. Expert-level proficiency with Systems Tool Kit (STK) / Satellite Tool Kit (STK), including advanced modules (e.g., Astrogator, Optimizer, Coverage, Comm) and experience with STK automation/scripting (via API, Connect). Advanced programming proficiency and demonstrated experience developing analysis tools, models, or simulations in Python and MATLAB. In-depth theoretical and practical understanding of advanced orbital mechanics, perturbation theory, estimation techniques (orbit determination), and trajectory optimization methods (gradient-based, evolutionary). Proven ability to lead technical analyses, conduct complex trade studies, and solve challenging astrodynamics problems independently. Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. French language is considered favorably.

Complementary skills/knowledge:

PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field with a focus on astrodynamics or orbital mechanics. Experience with other simulation environments (GMAT, FreeFlyer, Orekit) or specialized tools (SPICE). Experience with C/C++ programming. Experience in spacecraft Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) analysis or design. Experience with multi-body dynamics and large constellations. Experience with satellite operations, particularly flight dynamics aspects. Experience with software development best practices (version control with Git, testing, documentation, CI/CD). Record of publications or conference presentations in relevant fields.