Associate Staff - Orbital Dynamics

Job Description

The Advanced Electro-Optical Systems Group (Group 99) specializes in the rapid design and prototyping of innovative electro-optic systems that support the Department of Defense, NASA, and other U.S. government organizations. The group has deep expertise in satellite systems, electro-optical and infrared sensors, electronics, image processing, and low-SWaP (size, weight, and power) optical communications. By combining hardware and software development under one roof, the group rapidly architectures, prototypes, and deploys end-to-end systems tailored to mission needs. We work closely with end users to transform enabling concepts into operational capabilities on accelerated timelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply models for orbital mechanics, trajectory propagation, and perturbation analysis
• Perform orbit determination and estimation using real or simulated data
• Analyze space system performance, including maneuver planning and mission design
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to integrate orbital dynamics with broader system requirements
• Build, validate, and maintain analysis tools and simulation frameworks
• Communicate technical results clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Required Qualifications

• M.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related technical field. A Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years of experience would be considered.
• Strong foundation in orbital mechanics and astrodynamics
• Experience with scientific computing (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar)
• Demonstrated ability to follow through on complex technical work from initial concept to delivery
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with orbit determination techniques (e.g., Kalman filtering, batch estimation)
• Familiarity with space mission design or operations
• Experience working with real sensor data or flight systems
• Is comfortable working in ambiguous problem spaces and helping define solutions
• Communicates clearly and works effectively in team settings

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options

Disclaimer

This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits. At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, we provide many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts and perks.