Trajectory Optimization Analyst

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.
Job Summary
The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.
The Trajectory Optimization Analyst will provide trajectory analysis and optimization support for spacecraft, launch, reentry vehicles, and missiles, for Earth-centric, cislunar, and occasionally interplanetary missions. This role will support conceptual design/technology assessments, pre-launch analysis for on-contract programs, launch and Mission Ops, and end-of-life phases.
This full-time position will be located in El Segundo, CA or Colorado Springs, CO and can support telework one day per week.
What You'll Be Doing

• You will support the U.S. national space enterprise by developing and applying advanced techniques for solving flight mechanics and astrodynamics problems
• Perform trajectory simulation and performance optimization of spacecraft, launch vehicles, upper stages, missiles, and reentry vehicles
• Analyze and optimize chemical propulsion, low thrust propulsion, and hybrid propulsion orbit transfers
• Implement optimization theory including calculus of variations approaches and/or non-linear programming
• Develop methodology and tools for spacecraft low thrust propulsion simulation and optimization
• Support launch vehicle ops and spacecraft orbit transfer campaigns
• Implement scripting techniques to perform parametric studies

This position is available as a Member of Technical Staff or Senior Member of Technical Staff
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
Member of Technical Staff

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent
• Typically, 2 or more years of professional or related experience in flight mechanics, optimization theory, or trajectory modeling and simulation
• Course work, research and/or experience in one or more of the following areas: Orbit mechanics, optimal control, flight mechanics, trajectory modeling and simulation
• Proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: C , C++,Fortran, Python, MATLAB or experience in a Unix environment
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Sr. Member of Technical Staff
Same requirements as Member of Technical Staff noted above, in addition to:

• Typically, 5 or more years of professional or related experience in flight mechanics, optimization theory, or trajectory modeling and simulation

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

• Advanced degree in a STEM field or equivalent
• Graduate Level Course work, research and/or experience in both orbit mechanics and optimal control
• Proficiency in C and/or Fortran
• A current and active TS/SSBI (SCI) security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Grade-Based Pay Range
(Min - Mid - Max)
$92,000 - $119,000 - $133,000
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 The Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the supplement, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.