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Astrodynamics Software Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Astrodynamics Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Astrodynamics Engineer Full-Time permanent role Locations: Westminster, CO 80031 Client U.S. is a ... At the core of its infrastructure lies a sophisticated integration of hardware and software ...

Product Owner

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

Experience: * 8 or more years of relevant experience in software development, astrodynamics engineering, or SSA/SDA operations. * Demonstrated experience as a Product Owner, technical lead, or ...

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Astrodynamics Software Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$66.8K

$155.1K

$216.1K

How much do astrodynamics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for astrodynamics software engineer in Colorado is $155,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,200.00 and $181,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an astrodynamics software engineer?

Astrodynamics Software Engineers are specialized professionals who develop and maintain software tools and algorithms to predict and analyze the motion of objects in space, such as satellites, spacecraft, and debris. They use principles of physics, mathematics, and computer science to model orbital mechanics and support mission planning, navigation, and tracking. Their work is crucial to ensuring the success and safety of space missions by providing accurate trajectory predictions and solutions for complex space operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by astrodynamics software engineers when developing mission planning tools?

Astrodynamics Software Engineers often encounter challenges related to the high precision required in modeling spacecraft trajectories and orbital mechanics. These roles frequently involve integrating complex mathematical algorithms with robust software architectures, ensuring both accuracy and computational efficiency. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—such as mission analysts, guidance and navigation experts, and systems engineers—is essential to align software functionality with mission requirements. Staying current with advances in astrodynamics models and simulation frameworks is also important for success in this dynamic field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an astrodynamics software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astrodynamics Software Engineer, you need a strong background in orbital mechanics, mathematics, physics, and software development, typically supported by a degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or computer science. Expertise in programming languages (such as C++, Python, or MATLAB), experience with simulation tools, and familiarity with astrodynamics libraries are essential, along with relevant certifications or project experience. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this field. These skills enable the accurate modeling, analysis, and implementation of space missions, ensuring mission success and the development of reliable spaceflight solutions.

What is the difference between Astrodynamics Software Engineer vs Aerospace Systems Engineer?

AspectAstrodynamics Software EngineerAerospace Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related fields; systems engineering knowledge
Work EnvironmentDevelops algorithms for satellite trajectory, orbital mechanics, simulation softwareDesigns and integrates aerospace systems, including propulsion, avionics, and structural components
Employer & Industry UsageSpace agencies, satellite companies, aerospace firmsAircraft manufacturers, space agencies, defense contractors

While both roles require aerospace knowledge and engineering skills, Astrodynamics Software Engineers focus on satellite trajectories and orbital calculations, whereas Aerospace Systems Engineers work on designing and integrating entire aerospace systems. The choice depends on whether you prefer software development for space missions or broader system engineering in aerospace projects.

What are popular job titles related to Astrodynamics Software Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Astrodynamics Software Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Astrodynamics Software Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Astrodynamics Software Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Astrodynamics Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Astrodynamics Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Astrodynamics Software Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,124 per year, or $74.6 per hour.

Mission Design Engineer (2-5 yrs)

Advanced Space

Westminster, CO

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Advanced Space | Full-time | Hybrid

We're going to the Moon. Think you've got what it takes? 

About the Role 

At Advanced Space, we're enabling humanity's return to the Moon and building the technologies that will take us to Mars and beyond. We're looking for a Mission Design Engineer with 2-5 years of experience to apply astrodynamics expertise and creative problem-solving to some of the most ambitious missions in the space industry. 

This is a hands-on technical role supporting mission design and trajectory analysis across Earth-orbiting, cislunar, and interplanetary missions. You'll contribute throughout the full mission lifecycle-from mission architecture and trajectory optimization to concept of operations development, contingency planning, and flight operations support. 

We're looking for someone who thrives in technically challenging environments, enjoys solving complex astrodynamics problems, and is excited to work alongside a team that's delivering real missions-not just concepts. 

This position is open to U.S. Persons (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents) only. Visa sponsorship is not available. 

About Advanced Space 

Advanced Space exists to enable the sustainable exploration, development, and settlement of space through innovative software, mission services, and technology solutions. As the owner and operator of NASA's CAPSTONE mission and the Prime Contractor for AFRL's Oracle mission, we're helping shape the future of cislunar exploration while supporting commercial, civil, and national security customers. 

Our team combines deep technical expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset. We move quickly, collaborate across disciplines, and empower every engineer to make meaningful contributions. If you're passionate about solving challenging problems and seeing your work fly in space, you'll fit right in. 

What You'll Actually Do 

Design mission architectures and optimize trajectories. 

Apply mission design and trajectory optimization expertise across a variety of mission domains, including Earth-orbiting, cislunar, interplanetary, high-thrust, low-thrust, formation-flying, and proximity operations missions. 

Solve complex astrodynamics challenges. 

Perform mission design analyses including delta-V budgeting, trajectory optimization, Monte Carlo/statistical-delta-V simulations, stationkeeping analysis, and formation-keeping algorithm development. 

Support missions from concept through operations. 

Take ownership of mission phases and work alongside technical leads to define analysis approaches, break down complex problems, and deliver accurate technical solutions that support mission success. 

Develop tools that enable future missions. 

Build and improve astrodynamics software and flight operations tools using programming languages such as Python and Julia. Apply innovative approaches to expand Advanced Space's mission design capabilities. 

Collaborate across engineering disciplines. 

Partner with navigation, systems, GNC, flight software, and other engineering teams to define requirements, support verification efforts, and integrate mission design analyses across the spacecraft system. 

Communicate technical solutions clearly. 

Document and present design and analysis results for internal teams and customers. Translate complex technical concepts into clear recommendations and actionable insights. 

Continue learning and push technical boundaries. 

Stay current with aerospace research, publications, and emerging technologies to solve challenging problems and develop new approaches to mission design. 

Who Thrives Here 

  • You have a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field. 
  • You have 2-5 years of professional experience in mission design, astrodynamics, trajectory design, or a closely related discipline. 
  • You have experience applying mission design and trajectory optimization concepts to real-world aerospace problems. 
  • You have experience with astrodynamics software such as MONTE, Copernicus, GMAT, STK, FreeFlyer, or similar tools. 
  • You can write Python, Matlab, Julia, or similar scripts to solve mission design and analysis problems and contribute to complex codebases. 
  • You enjoy solving difficult technical problems and are comfortable working through ambiguous challenges. 
  • You communicate technical concepts clearly and can collaborate effectively across engineering disciplines. 
  • You take ownership of your work and proactively solve problems when you see them. 

Bonus Points if You Have Experience With

  • Supporting spacecraft operations procedures and maneuver design activities during flight operations.  
  • Understanding spacecraft navigation concepts and how navigation interacts with mission design analyses.  
  • Supporting systems integration and verification analyses.  
  • Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems and how they interface with trajectory design.  
  • Developing generalized astrodynamics tools using Python and/or Julia.  
  • Experience supporting system-level design reviews such as SRR, PDR, or CDR.  
  • Experience with formation flying, stationkeeping, or proximity operations.  
  • Using agentic AI tools to support code development, documentation, and testing while maintaining technical accuracy. 

Success is Measured By 

  • Delivering accurate mission design analyses that support successful mission execution.  
  • Developing innovative trajectory solutions for challenging aerospace missions.  
  • Building and improving mission design tools and processes.  
  • Effectively collaborating across engineering teams to integrate mission design solutions.  
  • Clearly communicating technical findings and recommendations to internal teams and customers.  
  • Contributing to the continued growth of Advanced Space's mission design capabilities. 

 Why Join Advanced Space 

  • Work on real missions that are shaping the future of lunar and deep-space exploration.  
  • Help design spacecraft trajectories and mission architectures for cutting-edge space missions.  
  • Collaborate with some of the industry's top experts in astrodynamics, autonomy, and mission design.  
  • Be part of a growing company where your technical contributions have a direct impact on mission success.  
  • Join a team that's passionate about delivering innovation to orbit-and beyond. 

Compensation & Benefits 

  • Base Salary: $88,000-$116,000 (based on experience, qualifications, and location)
  • Signing bonus
  • Quarterly performance bonuses
  • Company-sponsored medical benefits and 401(k)
  • Flexible time off
  • Relocation assistance

Advanced Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.Â