Senior Astrodynamics Engineer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California.

📋 Description

• Act as the lead for astronautics within a commercial-grade astronautics software library.

• Create, test, and implement high-fidelity orbit determination (OD) algorithms and applications.

• Design scalable and production-ready OD pipelines and services utilizing C++.

• Apply advanced state estimation techniques, including:

• - Extended Kalman Filters (EKF)

• - Unscented Kalman Filters (UKF)

• - Batch Least Squares

• - Stochastic filtering and smoothing methodologies.

• Develop and validate inertial propagation and perturbation models, which include:

• - Gravitational models

• - Atmospheric drag

• - Solar radiation pressure (SRP)

• - N-body perturbations.

• Perform maneuver planning and trajectory analysis for:

• - Collision avoidance

• - Station-keeping

• - Orbit transfers

• - Rendezvous operations.

• Assist in conjunction analysis and space debris mitigation efforts.

• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to integrate navigation and OD systems into larger spacecraft architectures.

• Lead modeling and simulation initiatives that support mission and system design.

• Ensure engineering precision through thorough testing and validation processes.

• Engage in peer code reviews and contribute to maintaining high software quality standards.

• Collaborate with product and business teams to influence platform capabilities and enhance customer-facing features.

⛳️ Requirements

• M.S. or Ph.D. in: Astronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering (focusing on space), Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field.

• A minimum of 10–20+ years of professional experience in:

• - Orbit determination

• - State estimation

• - Astrodynamics

• - Trajectory optimization

• Demonstrated experience in developing and analyzing astronautics algorithms for operational or mission contexts.

• Strong comprehension of the satellite mission lifecycle operations:

• - Launch

• - Commissioning

• - On-orbit operations

• - End-of-life disposal

• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and their mission implications:

• - Propulsion

• - Thermal systems

• - Power systems

• - Communications

• Understanding of orbital mechanics and environmental influences:

• - Atmospheric drag

• - Radiation pressure

• - Perturbation modeling

• - Maneuver design and navigation operations.

• Coordination with ground stations and awareness of operational mission constraints.

• Familiarity with space situational awareness (SSA) and conjunction assessment.

• Strong expertise in:

• - Kalman filtering and estimation techniques

• - Relative and inertial state estimation

• - Numerical methods and optimization approaches

• - Modern software development in: C or C++

• - Modeling and simulation for aerospace systems.

🏝️ Benefits

• Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, allowing you to benefit from the company's achievements.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.

• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to assist you in planning for your future.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to enhance your skills and career advancement.

• Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to nurture a positive work environment.