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Astrodynamics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Astrodynamics information

See California salary details

$41.5K

$107.2K

$162.8K

How much do astrodynamics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for astrodynamics in California is $107,216.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,300.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is astrodynamics?

An astrodynamics job involves the study and application of orbital mechanics to design and analyze the trajectories of spacecraft, satellites, and other celestial bodies. Professionals in this field calculate orbital transfers, predict satellite positions, and develop models for space missions. They work with physics-based simulations, mathematical models, and software tools to ensure mission success. Astrodynamicists are employed by aerospace companies, space agencies, and research institutions to support space exploration, defense, and satellite operations.

What does an astrodynamics professional do?

Professionals in Astrodynamics typically spend their days developing and analyzing spacecraft trajectories, performing orbital simulations, and ensuring mission feasibility using advanced modeling tools and software. They work closely with multidisciplinary teams—including spacecraft engineers, mission planners, and operations specialists—to optimize flight paths and address challenges such as fuel efficiency and collision avoidance. Regular tasks may also include preparing technical reports, presenting findings, and supporting real-time operations during mission-critical events. This blend of analytical work and team collaboration makes the role dynamic and integral to the success of space missions.

What skills and qualifications are needed for astrodynamics?

To thrive in Astrodynamics, you need a deep understanding of orbital mechanics, physics, and applied mathematics, typically supported by an advanced degree in aerospace engineering or a related discipline. Familiarity with simulation software such as GMAT, STK, or MATLAB, as well as proficiency in programming languages like Python or C++, is common in the field. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills are highly valued. These technical and interpersonal competencies are essential for developing, evaluating, and communicating space mission trajectories and ensuring mission success.

How to get a job in astrodynamics?

To get a job in astrodynamics, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Skills in orbital mechanics, programming (e.g., MATLAB, Python), and experience with simulation tools are highly valued. Internships, research projects, and professional certifications can also improve employment prospects in this specialized field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Astrodynamics jobs in California?

The most popular types of Astrodynamics jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Astrodynamics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Astrodynamics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Astrodynamics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Astrodynamics job openings:

Infographic showing various Astrodynamics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,216 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Astrodynamics Engineer (Lead/Senior) - Millennium Space Systems

Boeing

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 613 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Astrodynamics Engineer (Lead/Senior) - Millennium Space Systems
Company:
Millennium Space Systems
Millennium Space Systems, a part of Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS), is a fast, agile small satellite company focused on national security space. Our missions have direct impact to global security, like missile warning and Earth observation.
Our team is curious, bold and innovative. We take risks, innovate and explore new techniques and technologies. We influence change because we challenge the status quo. And when we watch our satellites launch, we know each one of us made it happen.
The Astrodynamics Team is responsible for conducting a range of modeling, simulation, and analyses in areas such as space mission design, trajectory design, orbital maneuvers, orbit estimation, space debris collision and avoidance analyses, and space domain awareness. Engineers in the Astrodynamics group are integral throughout the entire program lifecycle, providing mission design inputs, maneuver plans to meet mission objectives, as well as console support for on-orbit operations. They are directly responsible for determining the necessary capability of the satellite's propulsion system and successfully maneuvering vehicles during flight operations. They oversee the orbital Concept-of-Operations (CONOPS) from inception to on-orbit operations, and through to end-of-life disposal.
As an Astrodynamics Engineer, you will be the Responsible Engineering Authority (REA) for the Astrodynamics subsystem for a given program, study, or proposal. You will be at the forefront in the design of our current and future missions, with the opportunity to advance as a technical leader. In addition to your technical responsibilities, as an experienced member of the team you will help set the engineering standard for the Astro team. You will define methods, tools, and processes to follow, and you will be accountable for the quality of the work coming from the group at large. You will mentor other members of the team and develop the next generation of Astrodynamics engineering talent.
This position's internal job code is Guidance, Nav & Controls Engr. Our team is currently hiring for levels 3/4.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Perform astrodynamics and orbit analyses
  • Determine and derive astrodynamics requirements to meet customer requirements and perform customer missions
  • Optimize spacecraft trajectories based on fuel, time, and/or performance characteristics
  • Define/develop tools and processes to be used by mission operations and the broader team
  • Oversee Astrodynamics Engineering across a range of programs and portfolios
  • Interface with other satellite subsystems as well as systems engineering and program management to ensure system-level performance
  • Technical leadership of a team of engineers in support of a program, including decomposition and delegation of tasks

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.
Security Clearance and Export Control Requirements:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance. for which the US Government requires U.S. Citizenship. A final U.S. Top Secret security clearance is required post start.
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related technical discipline and a minimum of 5 years of engineering industry experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience
  • 3 or more years' experience in orbital mechanics, orbit design, or astrodynamics
  • 3 or more years' experience with orbit design and simulation software tools (e.g. GMAT, STK, COTS mission planning tools, etc.) and scientific computing software (MATLAB, Python, Julia, Fortran, C++, etc.)
  • This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance (post-start) for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • 9+ years industry experience in orbit analysis role(s)
  • Experience with rendezvous and proximity operations or formation flight
  • Specialization in advanced orbital mechanics topics (e.g., trajectory optimization, relative motion maneuvering, orbit determination techniques, etc.)
  • Ability to architect novel methods, algorithms, and solutions for complex mission analyses
  • Experience decomposing large/complex/nebulous tasks into clearly defined subsets of work that can be done personally or delegated to other members of the team
  • Ability to set direction of program work and create processes and standards to support the group
  • Development of industry leading knowledge, methods, and techniques within the realm of spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control (GNC)
  • Active U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance

Conflict of Interest:
Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process
Drug Free Workplace:
Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Total Rewards:
At Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Millennium Space Systems also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations
Summary Pay Range:
  • Level 3: $123,000 - $183,000
  • Level 4: $150,750 - $225,000

Millennium is DDTC-registered, ITAR-compliant Company. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens and eligible for a security clearance. Additionally, applicants must be willing to apply for and maintain a security clearance. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified.
Category = Engineering
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Not Applicable
Relocation:
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Top Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
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At Boeing, we are all innovators on a mission to connect, protect, explore and inspire. From the sea bed to outer space, you'll learn and grow, contributing to work that shapes the world. Find your future with us.

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Company size

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Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US