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Flight Dynamics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Satellite Operations Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Perform flight dynamics analyses including orbit determination, maneuver planning, collision avoidance, and station-keeping for the TrustPoint constellation. * Support constellation management across ...

Satellite Operations Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Perform flight dynamics analyses including orbit determination, maneuver planning, collision avoidance, and station-keeping for the TrustPoint constellation. * Support constellation management across ...

Satellite Operations Engineer

Dulles, VA

$68K - $93K/yr

Perform flight dynamics analyses including orbit determination, maneuver planning, collision avoidance, and station-keeping for the TrustPoint constellation. * Support constellation management across ...

Coordinate with astrodynamics, flight dynamics, and engineering teams to integrate trajectory and maneuver planning into operational timelines. * Support customer mission planning activities ...

Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and software development. Experience with simulation, mathematical modeling, data analysis, and technical ...

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Flight Dynamics information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$28

$46

How much do flight dynamics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight dynamics in Virginia is $28.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flight Dynamics vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight DynamicsFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsDegree in aerospace engineering, physics, or related field; knowledge of flight mechanicsDegree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related; experience with flight testing
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, simulation centers, aircraft design teamsOn aircraft during testing, ground support, data analysis
Industry UsageAircraft design, simulation, stability analysisConducting and analyzing flight tests for aircraft certification

Flight Dynamics focuses on analyzing and modeling aircraft behavior and stability, often through simulations and theoretical work. Flight Test Engineers are hands-on professionals who plan, execute, and analyze actual flight tests to validate aircraft performance. While both roles require aerospace knowledge, Flight Dynamics emphasizes modeling and analysis, whereas Flight Test Engineers focus on practical testing and data collection during flights.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Flight Dynamics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Flight Dynamics often encounter challenges such as managing the complexities of trajectory optimization, ensuring precise attitude control, and adapting to evolving mission requirements. These issues require strong analytical skills, close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (such as guidance, navigation, and control engineers), and the use of advanced simulation tools to validate models. Staying current with industry software and continuously refining problem-solving approaches can help address these challenges effectively. Regular communication with other engineering teams also ensures alignment and fosters innovative solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Flight Dynamics, and why are they important?

To thrive in Flight Dynamics, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or applied mathematics, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or STK), flight control systems, and modeling tools is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate analysis, safe flight operations, and clear collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in complex aerospace projects.

What are flight dynamics?

Flight dynamics refers to the study of the forces and motions that affect the path of an aircraft or spacecraft as it moves through the air or space. It involves understanding how factors like lift, drag, weight, and thrust interact to influence an object's position, orientation, and stability during flight. Professionals in this field analyze and predict how vehicles respond to control inputs and environmental conditions to ensure safe and efficient flight. Flight dynamics is crucial in designing flight control systems and planning flight paths.
Infographic showing various Flight Dynamics job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,366 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Flight Dynamics Engineer

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Aerospace Engineer Location: NASA, Hampton, Virginia (Primary) Category: Engineering Job Type: Full-Time Education: Bachelor's Degree Security Clearance Required: None Job Description STC is seeking exceptional aerospace engineers to join our team supporting NASA's human spaceflight, planetary exploration, and other critical missions. We are augmenting our staff and are looking for several motivated individuals with expertise in flight dynamics, especially modeling and analysis of aerospace vehicles. We are interested in individuals with the ability to contribute to research efforts including system performance evaluations, spacecraft trajectory optimization, guidance, navigation and control system modelling.

Salary: $70,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experienceB.S. in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent. (Required) M.S

or Ph.D. in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent. (Preferred) Familiarity with flight mechanics, control systems, and dynamics simulation

(Required) Strong written and oral communication skills. (Required) Experience in one or more of the following areas: (Required) Entry descent and landing design and analysis Launch vehicle analysis Flight testing including post-flight data analysis Simulation development Trajectory optimization Orbital dynamics Parameter identification Background in multi-body dynamics and/or subsystem modeling. (Preferred) Experience with Matlab / Simulink, FORTRAN, C/C++, or similar languages.

(Preferred) U.S. Citizenship (Required)B.S. in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent

(Required) M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering or equivalent

(Preferred) Familiarity with flight mechanics, control systems, and dynamics simulation. (Required) Strong written and oral communication skills. (Required) Experience in one or more of the following areas: (Required) Entry descent and landing design and analysis Launch vehicle analysis Flight testing including post-flight data analysis Simulation development Trajectory optimization Orbital dynamics Parameter identification Background in multi-body dynamics and/or subsystem modeling.

(Preferred) Experience with Matlab / Simulink, FORTRAN, C/C++, or similar languages. (Preferred) U.S. Citizenship (Required)