Modeling and Simulation Engineer

SAIC • Chantilly, VA

62d

About The Position

SAIC is seeking a Modeling and Simulation Engineer to support a customer in Chantilly, VA. The successful candidate will develop and maintain physics-based simulation models of spacecraft systems, including structures, sensors, and mission environments. They will perform end-to-end performance modeling for satellite missions, integrating sensor, orbital, and environmental models. The role includes conducting sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection, tracking, and signature analysis. Additionally, the engineer will perform orbital mechanics modeling including orbit determination, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft flight dynamics. They will use scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to automate workflows, perform data analysis, and interface between simulation tools. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (systems engineering, GNC, payload, mission design) is essential to ensure model fidelity and consistency. The engineer will also generate technical documentation, simulation reports, and visualizations to communicate findings and support design decisions, as well as support trade studies and design reviews by providing modeling insights into performance impacts of design changes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field with 5+ years of professional technical experience.
• 3+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for aerospace or space systems.
• Active Top Secret/SCI w/Poly Clearance.
• Strong understanding of sensor phenomenology --such as optical, infrared, or radar systems --and associated modeling methods.
• Intermediate Python programming experience, demonstrated through hands-on experience with tasks such as data manipulation, automation, and development of Python-based solutions. Experience with libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, pandas, and matplotlib is beneficial.
• Ability to communicate technical results clearly in written and verbal formats.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain physics-based simulation models of spacecraft systems, including structures, sensors, and mission environments.
• Perform end-to-end performance modeling for satellite missions, integrating sensor, orbital, and environmental models.
• Conduct sensor phenomenology studies, including optical, infrared, or radar modeling for detection, tracking, and signature analysis.
• Perform orbital mechanics modeling including orbit determination, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft flight dynamics.
• Use scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, or similar) to automate workflows, perform data analysis, and interface between simulation tools.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (systems engineering, GNC, payload, mission design) to ensure model fidelity and consistency.
• Generate technical documentation, simulation reports, and visualizations to communicate findings and support design decisions.
• Support trade studies and design reviews by providing modeling insights into performance impacts of design changes.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees