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Astrodynamics and Navigation Engineer III Verified today

Quantum Space · Rockville, MD · Hawthorne, CA · Denver, CO · Space Systems · first seen 2026-07-16
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About the Role

Quantum Space is seeking an experienced Astrodynamics and Navigation Engineer III to lead the analysis, design, and operational support of highly maneuverable spacecraft missions. This role leads 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.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead mission design activities for LEO, MEO, GEO, and cislunar missions, including trajectory and maneuver design, delta-v/propellant budgeting, orbit maintenance planning, navigation covariance sensitivity studies, launch injection dispersion and maneuver execution Monte Carlo analyses, and disposal planning
  • Own mission-level simulation and end-to-end performance analysis, including eclipse and payload coverage analyses, conjunction assessment and collision avoidance analysis, ground station visibility analysis and link budget inputs, tracking geometry assessment and schedules, and scheduling support for mission operations
  • Architect navigation solutions, informing selection of spacecraft tracking measurement phenomenologies and ground networks
  • Develop 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 evaluation
  • Generate technical documentation, trade studies, and design reports
  • Collaborate with GNC, communications, systems engineering, and mission operations

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Physics, or related field
  • 5-10+ years of experience performing mission design tasks, general mission analysis, and flight dynamics related operations for spacecraft systems
  • Strong background in orbital mechanics, spacecraft dynamics, and spacecraft navigation
  • Experience with industry standard tools such as Systems Tool Kit (STK)/Orbit Determination Toolkit (ODTK), Freeflyer, GMAT, or similar
  • Experience in at least one of the following languages: Python, MATLAB
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Nice-to-Have Experience

  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Astrodynamics or Estimation
  • Experience with cislunar three-body trajectory design and navigation
  • Experience with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) mission design including relative orbit design and navigation
  • Experience designing low-thrust and hybrid propulsion spacecraft missions
  • Experience with alternative forms of spacecraft navigation (e.g. OpNAV, inter-satellite links)
  • Exposure to other spacecraft subsystems (e.g. GNC, propulsion, FSW)

Compensation and Location

  • Base Salary: $125,000 - $175,000
  • Competitive equity grants included in the majority of full-time offers
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing
  • Locations: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA or Denver, CO

Eligibility

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.