Astrodynamics Engineer

SAIC is hiring Astrodynamics Engineers in Chantilly, VA to join a mission-driven analysis team supporting multiple satellite programs at the forefront of national innovation. This team develops and analyzes novel satellite missions that directly support national priorities, working within a supportive Government environment and engaging frequently with senior Government decision-makers. Engineers will solve complex modeling and simulation challenges and collaborate with multi-disciplinary experts to provide comprehensive, actionable insights.
 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and apply astrodynamics and/or orbit determination models to support satellite mission design, analysis, and assessment.

• Perform independent trade studies and technical assessments of orbits, maneuvers, RPO (Rendezvous and Proximity Operations), conjunction risks, and related mission parameters.

• Evaluate and validate results and analysis products provided by external teams, identifying gaps, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

• Design, implement, and refine modeling and simulation tools in Python or C++ (or by rapidly transferring skills from other programming languages), including potential use of High Performance Computing (HPC) resources.

• Identify and explore new mission concepts, analytical approaches, and modeling techniques that enhance mission effectiveness and resilience.

• Prepare and present clear, actionable technical briefings and written reports to Government customers and senior decision-makers.

• Collaborate closely with multi-disciplinary experts in propulsion, radars, optics, AI/ML, cloud computing, and GPU computing to develop integrated analyses and solutions; refine analyses based on formal internal and external peer review.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical STEM field and 2+ years of relevant experience; OR
  • Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical STEM field and 0+ years of experience.
• Demonstrated experience in astrodynamics/orbital mechanics, orbit determination, or related space mission analysis (e.g., orbit maneuver design, RPO, maneuver detection, conjunction assessment, or space domain awareness).
• Ability to program in Python or C++, or to quickly become proficient by transferring skills from another scientific/engineering programming language (e.g., MATLAB, Java, C, Fortran).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, mutually supportive engineering team.
• Ability to refine and improve analyses based on feedback from formal internal and external peer reviews.

Clearance Requirements:

• Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a polygraph.
• Must meet eligibility requirements for access to sensitive Government facilities, data, and programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with orbit maneuver design, Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO), maneuver detection, conjunction assessment, or other advanced astrodynamics applications.
• Experience leveraging High Performance Computing (HPC), GPU-accelerated computing, or cloud-based environments for large-scale modeling and simulation.
• Familiarity with astrodynamics and mission analysis tools such as STK, GMAT, FreeFlyer, Orekit, or similar software.
• Prior experience supporting IC, DoD, or other national security space missions.
• Demonstrated ability to present complex technical material to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior Government decision-makers.

Physical Requirements:

• Work is primarily performed in an office or SCIF environment in Chantilly, VA.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, including frequent use of keyboard, mouse, and display screens.
• Occasional lifting of items such as laptops, reference materials, or documentation up to approximately 20 pounds.
• Ability to participate in in-person meetings, briefings, and limited travel as required by the program.

2026.10.1