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Entry Level Astrodynamics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Sr. Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$59K - $110K/yr

Knowledge of astrodynamics principles relevant to remote sensing. Familiarity with space mission analysis and design impacts on remote sensing. * Familiarity with key elements of modeling the end-to ...

L3HHCM20

Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$59K - $110K/yr

Knowledge of astrodynamics principles relevant to remote sensing. Familiarity with space mission analysis and design impacts on remote sensing. * Familiarity with key elements of modeling the end-to ...

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Entry Level Astrodynamics information

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$12

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$22

How much do entry level astrodynamics jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level astrodynamics in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level astrodynamics job?

Entry level astrodynamics jobs are positions for recent graduates or early-career professionals that involve the study and application of the motion of objects in space, such as satellites, spacecraft, and planets. These roles often include tasks like orbit determination, trajectory analysis, and mission planning, typically using mathematical models and specialized software. Common employers include aerospace companies, government agencies like NASA, and defense contractors. Candidates generally need a degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, and strong analytical and programming skills are often required.

What do entry level astrodynamics professionals do?

Entry-level astrodynamics professionals often collaborate with engineers and scientists on projects such as satellite orbit determination, trajectory analysis, and mission planning. They support modeling and simulation tasks, help analyze tracking data, and contribute to the development of software tools for orbital mechanics. Working closely with senior team members, they may also assist in preparing technical reports and presentations. This collaborative environment helps new hires gain exposure to the full mission lifecycle and build a strong foundation for future growth.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level astrodynamics professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Astrodynamics professional, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and aerospace engineering, typically with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, STK (Systems Tool Kit), and programming languages such as Python or C++ is commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are critical for accurately modeling spacecraft trajectories and ensuring mission success in the aerospace industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Astrodynamics vs Entry Level Aerospace Engineering?

AspectEntry Level AstrodynamicsEntry Level Aerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Astrophysics, or related fieldBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, space agencies, satellite companiesManufacturing, design, testing facilities, aerospace firms
Industry UsageFocuses on orbital mechanics, satellite trajectory, mission planningDesigning aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion systems
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Astrodynamics primarily involves orbital mechanics, satellite trajectories, and mission planning within space agencies or satellite companies. In contrast, Entry Level Aerospace Engineering covers a broader range of aircraft and spacecraft design, manufacturing, and testing. Both roles require a background in engineering or physical sciences but differ in focus and work environment.

How to get into entry level astrodynamics?

To pursue an entry-level astrodynamics position, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field. Gaining experience with orbital mechanics, programming skills in languages like Python or MATLAB, and familiarity with simulation tools such as STK or GMAT can improve job prospects. Internships or research projects in space missions or satellite design also enhance qualifications.
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Entry Level Astrodynamics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Astrodynamics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,227 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Sr. Associate, Mechanical Engineer

L3HHCM20

Rochester, NY • On-site, Remote

$59K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Sr. Associate, Mechanical Engineer

Job Code: 43314

Job Location: Rochester, NY 

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

 

Job Description: Dynamics Analyst (GN&C/ACS/Controls/LOS/Jitter)

L3Harris is seeking a highly skilled Dynamics Analyst to perform design, analysis, modeling, and testing of high-performance controls for electro-mechanical and optical-mechanical systems with focus on Attitude Control Systems, Controls, LOS/Jitter, and/or dynamic testing.  The analyst will use their experience to model, analyze and simulate dynamic systems, utilizing methodologies for a variety of dynamic systems, but with a primary focus on system-level interdisciplinary electro-mechanical optical systems. This includes, but is not limited to, actuated optical systems, high bandwidth steering mirror control, multidisciplinary system modeling and characterization, image stabilization, and closed loop state estimation.

Job responsibilities:

  • Control Theory: Applying classical and modern control theory concepts such as stability, feedback control, and robustness. Utilizing analysis tools like Bode, Nyquist, Nichols, pole-zero plots, root-locus, and frequency-response analysis.
  • Control Systems: Conducting analysis, synthesis, development, and implementation of feedback control systems. This includes developing models as state-variable equations, transfer functions, and/or block diagrams to determine dynamic systems characteristics, and analyzing both time and frequency responses.
  • Structural Dynamics and Vibration Analysis: Performing structural dynamics and vibration analysis, including random vibration and acoustic analysis, design, measurement, and computation of multi-degree-of-freedom systems.
  • Computational Methods: Employing finite-element-based computational methods, dynamic testing methods, and modal analysis (both analytical and experimental).
  • Optical Performance Analysis: Evaluating system-level optical performance related to pointing, smear, and jitter.
  • Digital Signal Processing: Applying fundamental concepts and techniques of digital signal processing theory and its applications, including discrete-time signals, systems, and modern digital processing algorithms for both time-domain and frequency-domain methods.

Essential Functions:

  • Model control systems as part of larger system simulations for electro-mechanical and opto-mechanical hardware
  • Line-of-sight (LOS) control, attitude control, servo control, Kalman filtering
  • Algorithm development, implementation, flight software development, mission simulation, verification and validation
  • Multidisciplinary (hardware, electronics, and software) integrated system development and operation
  • Dynamic stabilization\isolation, passive vibration control, active vibration control
  • Model characterization and performance predictions\evaluations
  • Modal\Random Vibration\Acoustic\Shock model predictions, testing and correlation
  • Definition and documentation of system specifications

Qualifications:

  • To be eligible, applicants must be pursuing a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant degree or have completed their Master's degree within the last 12 months, regardless of age.  

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • TS/SCI Clearance
  • Proficient in FE modeling and analysis tools, MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++
  • Knowledge of astrodynamics principles relevant to remote sensing. Familiarity with space mission analysis and design impacts on remote sensing.
  • Familiarity with key elements of modeling the end-to-end imaging chain of remote sensing systems, with particular focus on the LOS impacts on image quality.
  • Preferred experience with real-time control implementation, and embedded C/C++ programming.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Colorado state, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York state, and Vermont is $59,000.00 - $110,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

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