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.