Orbit Dynamics Engineer (II-Staff)

True Anomaly•Long Beach, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it. True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.

Requirements

5+ years of professional experience in astrodynamics, flight dynamics, or spacecraft operations
Deep understanding of orbital mechanics, including perturbation theory, trajectory optimization, and numerical integration methods
Strong programming skills in Python, C++, TypeScript or similar languages for mission analysis tools
Experience with orbit determination techniques and filter implementation (EKF, UKF, BLS)
Demonstrated ability to lead technical projects from concept through operational implementation

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with constellation operations management involving 10+ spacecrafts
Hands-on experience planning or executing proximity operations, including station-keeping within formations
Familiarity with space surveillance data sources (JSpOC/18 SPCS, commercial SSA providers) and conjunction assessment processes
Experience with high-performance computing and parallelization for large-scale astrodynamics calculations
Skilled at developing heuristics and approximation strategies to keep astrodynamics solvers tractable at operational timescales
Knowledge of space situational awareness (SSA) and space domain awareness (SDA) mission concepts
Active security clearance or ability to obtain one
Publications or conference presentations in orbital mechanics or mission design

Responsibilities

Design and optimize orbital maintenance strategies for large satellite constellations, including station-keeping, collision avoidance, and end-of-life disposal planning
Perform comprehensive pre-launch mission analysis including constellation design, launch window analysis, orbit determination accuracy assessments
Develop and validate rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) maneuver plans for spacecraft inspection, servicing, and close-approach scenarios
Build and maintain high-fidelity astrodynamics simulation environments incorporating perturbation models, thrust profiles, and operational constraints
Lead mission design reviews and provide technical guidance to operations teams during critical mission phases
Develop automated tools and workflows for constellation management and maneuver planning at scale
Interface with external partners, launch providers, and government agencies on mission coordination and orbital safety