Software Engineer II, Spacecraft Simulation

True Anomaly • Denver, CO

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Software is the central nervous system for True Anomaly's engineering and product thesis. Software bridges the gap between military objectives, theoretical physics, and the human and autonomous control of spacecraft and ground systems. True Anomaly is seeking a Spacecraft Simulation Software Engineer to contribute to the continuing evolution of our spacecraft, constellation modeling, and simulation software with a focus on multi-physics, high-fidelity simulation. You will work in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary team to identify, develop, and deliver algorithms for modeling complex coupled physics including 6-degree-of-freedom (6DOF) rigid body dynamics, thermal systems, attitude dynamics and control, power systems, propulsion, and their interactions. This role focuses on building the simulation infrastructure that enables engineers to design spacecraft, validate control algorithms, analyze system performance, and predict mission outcomes with high confidence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, physics, a similar discipline, or relevant experience
• 1-3 years of professional experience in C++
• Experience with the Python programming language for scripting and prototyping applications
• Strong understanding of object-oriented software development practices
• Ability to understand new challenges quickly, formulate a plan, get buy-in, and execute
• Understanding of complex distributed systems, and how the components you design and deliver will fit into those larger systems
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• U.S. Citizen and eligible for DoD Secret or TS/SCI clearance

Nice To Haves

• Experience developing physics-based modeling and simulation environments (i.e., modeling spacecraft dynamics, thermal systems, or control algorithms)
• Knowledge of numerical methods: ODE solvers and integration schemes (Runge-Kutta, etc.)
• Numerical linear algebra and matrix computations
• Sparse matrix techniques
• Experience with spacecraft subsystems: Attitude determination and control systems (ADCS), Guidance, navigation, and control (GNC), Thermal control systems, Electric power systems (EPS), Propulsion systems
• Understanding of coordinate frames and transformations (ECI, ECEF, body frame, etc.)
• Experience with quaternion mathematics and rotation representations
• Knowledge of orbital mechanics and perturbation forces
• Familiarity with model validation, verification, and uncertainty quantification
• Experience with version control systems (Git) and CI/CD pipelines

Responsibilities

• Write well-structured, efficient code using modern C++ best practices (C++ 17 / C++ 20), with a particular emphasis on performance and maintainability
• Develop and maintain multi-physics simulation libraries for spacecraft systems modeling including: 6DOF rigid body dynamics with environmental perturbations (gravity gradient, solar radiation pressure, atmospheric drag, magnetic torques), Thermal modeling including conduction, radiation, and solar heating, Attitude dynamics and control system simulation, Propulsion system modeling (thrusters, tanks, mass properties), Power generation and distribution (solar arrays, batteries, loads), Sensor and actuator models (reaction wheels, star trackers, gyros, magnetometers, thrusters)
• Implement coupled physics algorithms that capture interactions between subsystems (thermal-structural, power-thermal, propulsion-dynamics, etc.)
• Design and implement time-stepping algorithms, solver architectures, and integration schemes for real-time and faster-than-real-time simulation
• Maintain libraries that provide APIs in multiple languages (Python, C++) to other applications within True Anomaly
• Work with other internal teams who leverage our simulation APIs to plan and execute missions, develop advanced algorithms for spacecraft operation, and perform trade-space analyses
• Participate in code reviews, architectural discussions, and sprint planning sessions to maintain high standards of software quality and adherence to project timelines

Benefits

• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, with HSA/HRA options
• Flexible Time Off (FTO) for exempt employees, accrued PTO of up to 25 days for non-exempt employees, plus 12 paid holidays
• Parental Leave
• Sick Leave
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks for in-office employees
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Fitness reimbursement
• Dog Fridays
• Equity participation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level