2024 Astrodynamics and Mission Design Analysis Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration - to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
Astrodynamics and Mission Design Analyst (New Grad)
The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you will be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration - to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
Job Summary
Want to be at the forefront of space innovation? The Systems Engineering Division (SED) provides unmatched experience in systems engineering to the U.S. government and to numerous public and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced application of space technology. From systems architecture development to system analysis and optimization, astrodynamics, orbital debris, navigation, failure analysis, mission assurance, cost and schedule assessment, and economic market analysis, SED exploits an incredibly broad array of engineering and business areas against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs and national challenges.
Within SED, the System Analysis and Simulation Subdivision (SASS) supports interdepartmental teams in astrodynamics, performance modeling, navigation and positioning, spaceflight safety, constellation design, rendezvous and proximity operations, operations, and modeling and simulation computing.
Work Model
Hybrid: This position will require onsite support in El Segundo, CA, Chantilly, VA, or Colorado Springs, CO with partial remote work options.
What You'll be Doing:

• As a member of the Astrodynamics Department, you will perform a wide range of orbit design and analyses to shape the future of the U.S. space enterprise, helping our customers by inventing new capabilities and developing some of our nation's most critical space missions.
• Inform key stakeholders and government customers by performing modeling, simulation, analysis, and tool development in department focus areas, which include mission analysis, orbit propagation, trajectory planning and maneuvering, station-keeping and lifetime analysis, orbit performance, space control and protection, and novel applications in Earth orbit and cislunar space
• Contribute to technical analysis, trade studies, and assessments in teams with multi-disciplinary technical leaders, Aerospace Program Office personnel, and external customers to define and address customer needs
• Develop and present timely and technically accurate briefings and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers
• Proactively network with subdivision staff and conduct independent research to solve problems and assignments given by task leads, with guidance from management or senior technical leaders
• Occasional travel to support customer efforts

What you need to be successful (minimum requirements):

• MS or PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, mathematics, or other STEM-related field from an accredited college/university (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• 0-1 years of industry experience
• Academic or professional experience in astrodynamics
• Demonstrated skills in the development and use of computer software tools
• Experience in technical writing and technical presentation
• The ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US Government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
• Transcripts required for this position

How You Can Stand Out (it would be impressive if you have one or more of these):

• Proven ability to self-manage multiple tasks independently and as part of a team
• Experience in modern software development, integration, and testing practices

• Academic or professional experience in space-based modeling, simulation, and analysis, such as space mission analysis and design, algorithm design, and mathematical modeling
• Academic or professional experience with astrodynamics software such as the General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT) and SPICE Toolkit
• Academic or professional experience in advanced mathematical topics, such as optimization theory, game theory, statistical estimation, and numerical analysis
• Current DoD or SCI security clearance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Mid - Max)
$70,000 - $93,000 - $109,000
Pay Basis: Annual
Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [email protected]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.