Senior R&D Engineer (Space) - Exton, PA (13347)

About the role

Ansys Government Initiatives (AGI), part of Synopsys, is at the forefront of Digital Mission Engineering (DME) for space systems. Our team builds and supports ODTK (Orbit Determination Tool Kit), a powerful product enabling highly accurate orbit estimation from real or simulated tracking data. ODTK is trusted by engineers and mission planners throughout the mission lifecycle—from design to operations—making critical impacts in aerospace, defense, and research sectors.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and document new features for the ODTK product, enhancing its capabilities for mission planning and operations.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to integrate advanced algorithms and optimize software performance.
• Investigate and resolve issues identified by QA or product support, delivering timely and effective solutions.
• Apply and promote best practices in commercial software development, including code reviews, version control, and continuous integration.
• Contribute to backlog reduction by addressing existing bugs and implementing architecture improvements.
• Engage with PhD-level experts to understand complex requirements and translate them into robust software implementations.
• Participate in agile development cycles, providing feedback and ideas to continually improve team processes and product quality.

Requirements

• BS in Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science or related field with 2 years’ experience, or MS degree.
• Strong proficiency in software development, with hands-on experience in C++, C#, and Visual Studio.
• Understanding of commercial software development lifecycle, including agile methodologies.
• Knowledge of one or more domain areas such as trajectory optimization, optimal control, attitude control & determination, or orbit determination.
• Experience in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues in complex software systems.
• Able to document code and technical solutions for future reference and team collaboration.

Qualifications

• Proactive team player who thrives in fast-paced, innovative environments.
• Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills.
• Quick learner who adapts to new technologies and domain-specific challenges.
• Detail-oriented problem solver, able to analyze complex issues and deliver effective solutions.
• Inclusive and open-minded, valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a welcoming team culture.

Skills

• Software development skills in C++, C#, and Visual Studio.
• Experience with agile methodologies.
• Knowledge of trajectory optimization, optimal control, attitude control & determination, or orbit determination.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Documentation and communication skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and healthcare plans.
• Time Away programs including company holidays, ETO, and FTO.
• Maternity and paternity leave, parenting resources, adoption and surrogacy assistance.
• Retirement plans varying by region and country.
• Competitive salaries.