Autonomous Trajectory & Mission Planning Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

. Provide flight mechanics expertise for cislunar, multi-objective trajectory sequencing, facility location optimization, and trans-atmospheric flight design .

Posted 11/3/2026full-timeUnited StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $95,200 - $165,500 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in flight mechanics, astrodynamics, and multi-objective optimization, with proficiency in C++ and Python for software development. Capable of conducting complex trajectory analysis and collaborating effectively with diverse stakeholders in high-stakes environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Flight Mechanics ExpertiseAstrodynamics AnalysisC++/Python Software DevelopmentMulti-Objective OptimizationDecision-Making Under Uncertainty

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

AstrodynamicsTrajectory OptimizationMathematical ModelingAlgorithm DesignMulti-Objective OptimizationSequential Decision-MakingObject-Oriented ProgrammingReachable Set AnalysisSpace Mission AnalysisPerformance Optimization

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationRelationship BuildingCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

SciPyASSETGPOPS-IISNOPTPOSTOTISCopernicusGMATEMTG

Certifications & Qualifications

Security ClearanceTS/SCI Clearance

Industry Keywords

CislunarHypersonicMissileInterceptorReentry VehicleLaunch VehicleSpacecraftContested Space TrajectoryMilitary ExercisesWargaming

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

PythonTypeScriptC++

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide flight mechanics expertise for cislunar, multi-objective trajectory sequencing, facility location optimization, and trans-atmospheric flight design
Perform astrodynamics and orbital mechanics analysis, including orbit propagation, constellation design and optimization, and maneuver design and optimization
Analyze combinatorial optimization and sequential decision-making problems, including Traveling Salesman, Facility Location, and Markov Decision Processes
Analyze multi-objective optimization problems using metaheuristics, mathematical programming, deterministic methods, and optimal control
Create, augment, and leverage C++/Python flight mechanics software and integrated submodules
Use external tools including SciPy, ASSET, GPOPS-II, SNOPT, POST, OTIS, Copernicus, GMAT, and EMTG
Evaluate contested mission applications to assess threat performance, vulnerabilities, and system resiliency
Develop CONOPS and TTPs and incorporate operational constraints into space and near-space system design
Support maneuver and orbit design for Rendezvous and Proximity Operations objectives
Conduct cislunar, exploration-class, hypersonic, missile, interceptor, reentry vehicle, launch vehicle, and spacecraft trajectory analysis and optimization
Analyze vehicles with chemical and/or electric propulsion
Provide operational support for launch, spacecraft deployment and transfer sequences, anomaly resolution, and on-call emerging events
Collaborate with engineering partners, customers, contractors, government stakeholders, and FFRDC personnel

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or related technical discipline
At least two years of relevant professional technical work experience
Experience in one or more of: space mission analysis and design, advanced astrodynamics, algorithm design, software development, mathematical modeling, multi-objective optimization, decision making under uncertainty, and/or trajectory simulation and performance optimization
Proficiency with one or more of: Python, C/C++, Fortran, MATLAB
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Willingness to travel domestically to customer and contractor facilities (approximately 10%)
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance issued by the U.S. government
U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
For Senior Member of Technical Staff: typically five or more years of relevant technical work experience
For Senior Member of Technical Staff: demonstrated technical excellence in relevant job capabilities and functions
For Senior Member of Technical Staff: ability to operate independently in ambiguous situations and deliver high-quality, relevant end products
Graduate degree and/or research or professional experience in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or related field
Experience with sequential decision-making and optimization algorithms
Experience with multi-objective optimization, linear/nonlinear programming, and/or gradient-based and indirect methods
Experience with reachable set analysis for dynamical systems
Experience building astrodynamics/flight mechanics analysis software with integrated optimization/decision-making algorithms
Experience with object-oriented programming, joint C++/Python development, and/or modern software development practices
Experience with contested space trajectory applications, military exercises, and wargaming events
Ability to build relationships with customers, contractors, and FFRDC personnel, including direct interface with senior government stakeholders
Current SSBI with active TS/SCI clearance and/or current SAP access

Benefits

Comp & perks

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