Astrodynamics and Navigation Engineer III

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly. Who We’re Looking For We are seeking an experienced Astrodynamics and Navigation Engineer III to lead the analysis, design, and operational support of highly maneuverable spacecraft missions. This role will lead trajectory design, orbit determination, maneuver planning, and mission analysis efforts across the mission lifecycle — from early concept development through on-orbit operations. You will work closely with systems engineering, GNC, flight software, propulsion, and mission operations teams to develop and implement robust, high-fidelity flight dynamics capabilities that support trajectory design, orbit determination, maneuver planning, and mission analysis for missions across multiple regimes. Where You’ll Make an Impact Lead mission design activities for LEO, MEO, GEO, and cislunar missions, including:Trajectory and maneuver designDelta-v/propellant budgetingOrbit maintenance planningNavigation covariance sensitivity studiesLaunch injection dispersion and maneuver execution Monte Carlo analysesDisposal planningOwn mission-level simulation and end-to-end performance analysis, including:Eclipse & payload coverage analysesConjunction assessment and collision avoidance analysisGround station visibility analysis and link budget inputsTracking geometry assessment and schedulesScheduling support for mission operationsArchitect navigation solutions, informing selection of spacecraft tracking measurement phenomenologies and ground networksDevelop and maintain internal flight dynamics and mission analysis tools (Python/MATLAB/C++-based)Contribute to spacecraft operations, including maneuver planning, anomaly investigation and on-orbit performance evaluationGenerate technical documentation, trade studies, and design reportsCollaborate with GNC, communications, systems engineering, mission operations What It Takes: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Physics, or related field5-10+ years of experience performing mission design tasks, general mission analysis, and flight dynamics related operations for spacecraft systemsStrong background in orbital mechanics, spacecraft dynamics, and spacecraft navigationExperience with industry standard tools such as Systems Tool Kit (STK)/Orbit Determination Toolkit (ODTK), Freeflyer, GMAT, or similarExperience in at least one of the following languages: Python, MATLABStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent written and verbal communication skills Nice-to-Have Experience: Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Astrodynamics or EstimationExperience with cislunar three-body trajectory design and navigationExperience with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) mission design including relative orbit design and navigationExperience designing low-thrust and hybrid propulsion spacecraft missionsExperience with alternative forms of spacecraft navigation (e.g. OpNAV, inter-satellite links)Exposure to other spacecraft subsystems (e.g. GNC, propulsion, FSW) What You’ll Get Ownership – Build and validate the flight dynamics capability that defines how our spacecraft operate across LEO, GEO, and cislunar regimes.Innovation – Shape next-generation flight dynamics architectures, trajectory design methodologies, and mission analysis tools for high-energy, low-energy, and multi-body missions.Impact – Directly influence mission feasibility, Delta-V performance, navigation accuracy, and long-term success across LEO, GEO, and cislunar operations.Growth – Collaborate across GNC, avionics, flight software, systems engineering, and mission operations, with opportunities to expand into advanced astrodynamics, orbit determination, mission design, or on-orbit flight operations leadership.Compensation –Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing. Location: Rockville, MD or, Hawthorne, CA or, Tulsa, OK Base Salary: $125,000 - $175,000 The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package. Additional Requirements To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.