Astrodynamics Engineer, Senior
About the role
Join a mission-driven analysis team supporting multiple satellite programs at the forefront of national innovation. The team drives development of novel satellite missions that directly support national priorities, operating within a supportive Government environment with frequent direct access to senior Government decision‑makers. SAIC is seeking Astrodynamics Engineers to solve complex modeling and simulation challenges and deliver critical analyses. The multi‑discipline team collaborates with experts in propulsion, radars, optics, AI/ML, cloud computing, GPUs and more. Location: Chantilly, VA. Clearance: TS/SCI (must be able to obtain TS/SCI with polygraph). Travel: up to 10% of the time. Potential for remote work noted.
Responsibilities
- Conduct independent trade studies and technical assessments
- Evaluate results provided by external teams
- Identify new concepts
- Present actionable technical briefings to customers
- Support other prime contracts as‑necessary
Qualifications
- Education: Aerospace Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related technical area – Bachelors and ≥5 years experience; or Masters and ≥2 years related experience
- Ability to program in Python or C++, or to quickly learn by transferring skills from another language
- Ability to collaborate well with other engineers in a mutually supportive environment
- Ability to refine analyses in response to formal internal and external peer reviews
- Must be able to obtain TS/SCI clearance (including CI polygraph)
Skills
- Astrodynamics and/or orbit determination expertise
- Orbit maneuver design, Rendezvous and Proximity Operations, maneuver detection, conjunction assessment
- High Performance Computing experience
- Programming in Python or C++
Pay
Target salary range: $120,001 – $160,000 (based on experience and other factors).
Schedule
Full‑Time, Day shift. Travel required up to 10% of the time.