Principal Astronautical Engineer

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of astronautical engineering solutions
• Build, develop, and maintain software and systems for space applications
• Ensure the quality and rigor of engineering processes and deliverables
• Drive for 100% test coverage against canonical sources of truth
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to achieve mission objectives
• Contribute to documentation, code reviews, and process improvements

Basic Qualifications

• M.S. in Astronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering with an astronautics emphasis, or a related technical field
• 8 to 20 years of professional experience in astronautical engineering
• Demonstrated ability to develop astronautics applications supporting mission operations, flight dynamics, flight software, and mission/systems engineering
• Experience designing and implementing software for space applications, including:
  • Space environment modeling and simulation
  • Spacecraft navigation and guidance algorithms
  • Spacecraft attitude control systems
  • Space mission planning and analysis tools
• Expert-level understanding of astronautical engineering technical and operational aspects:
  • Propagation
  • Time scale and reference frame transformations
  • Coordinate systems and conversions
  • Maneuver planning
  • Safety of flight analysis and operations
  • Orbit determination and state estimation
  • Optimal control
• Ability to implement and test numeric methods:
  • Numerical integration
  • Root finding
  • Linear programming
  • Non-linear programming
• Strong proficiency in C, C++, and Python
• Proficiency in build systems (CMake), version control (Git), and software development best practices
• Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and software testing methodologies
• Must travel to Irvine, CA or other locations as needed
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must be able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Working experience with MATLAB/Simulink, STK/Astrogator, GMAT, Orekit
• Experience developing enterprise-grade astronautics libraries and applications
• Operational experience using astronautics applications to support space missions

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and company stock
• Equity in Turion Space
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with 3% Employer Direct Contribution
• Generous vacation, personal, sick days, and holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities
• Team building activities