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Orbital Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Orbit Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

Lead complex orbital mechanics analyses, trajectory modeling, and conjunction assessments for operational and planned missions * Develop, validate, and approve maneuver strategies to mitigate ...

Senior Orbit Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

Lead complex orbital mechanics analyses, trajectory modeling, and conjunction assessments for operational and planned missions * Develop, validate, and approve maneuver strategies to mitigate ...

Additionally, you will perform indications and warning (I&W) tool monitoring and orbital analysis to assess threats against mission assets and maintain space catalog accuracy. A successful candidate ...

Perform routine orbital calculations and trajectory analysis using established tools and methods. * Monitor satellite positions and assess potential conjunctions or collision risks. * Assist in ...

Additionally, you will perform indications and warning (I&W) tool monitoring and orbital analysis to assess threats against mission assets and maintain space catalog accuracy. A successful candidate ...

Junior Orbit Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$101K - $124K/yr

Perform routine orbital calculations and trajectory analysis using established tools and methods. * Monitor satellite positions and assess potential conjunctions or collision risks. * Assist in ...

As a Space Operations Analyst, you will help protect mission-critical space and ground assets by ... This role offers a unique opportunity to build expertise in orbital mechanics, flight safety ...

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Orbital Analyst information

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$71.5K

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How much do orbital analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for orbital analyst in the United States is $71,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do orbital analysts do?

Orbital analysts track and analyze the movement of objects in space, such as satellites and space debris, using specialized software and data. They assess orbital trajectories, predict potential collisions, and support satellite operations and space situational awareness. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of orbital mechanics are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Orbital Analyst position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orbital Analyst, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astrodynamics, typically supported by a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Proficiency with orbital simulation software, satellite tracking tools, and programming languages like MATLAB or Python is highly valued, along with certifications such as Security Clearance when required. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities help you excel in fast-paced, detail-oriented environments. These skills are vital to ensure the accurate monitoring and prediction of satellite trajectories, contributing to effective mission planning and space asset management.

What are typical challenges faced by Orbital Analysts in their daily work?

Orbital Analysts frequently encounter challenges related to rapidly changing space environments, such as adapting to new satellite launches, collision avoidance alerts, and unexpected orbital maneuvers. You may need to analyze large data sets in time-sensitive situations, often collaborating closely with engineers, mission planners, and military or commercial space operators. Staying up-to-date with advancements in orbital mechanics and tracking technologies is also essential to maintain accuracy. Overcoming these challenges requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication within a multidisciplinary team, making the work both dynamic and rewarding for those who thrive on problem-solving.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, highly specialized roles such as senior orbital analysts, executive-level positions in aerospace companies, or top-tier consultants in the space industry can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These roles typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and often involve leadership, project management, or technical expertise in aerospace or related fields.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Orbital analysts typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, senior management, or specialized engineering positions in aerospace and defense industries. High-paying roles often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills in areas like satellite technology, systems engineering, or project management. Salaries at this level are usually associated with leadership positions or highly experienced professionals in related fields.

What is an Orbital Analyst job?

An Orbital Analyst is responsible for tracking and predicting the movement of satellites, spacecraft, and other objects in space. They use mathematical models and simulation tools to analyze orbital trajectories, assess potential collisions, and ensure safe operation of space missions. Their work is critical for satellite communication, defense applications, and space exploration. Orbital Analysts often collaborate with engineers, mission planners, and government agencies to support space situational awareness and mission success.

What is the highest paying space job?

The highest paying space jobs often include senior roles such as spacecraft program managers, aerospace engineers, and satellite directors, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Executive positions in space agencies or private aerospace companies tend to offer the highest compensation, especially for those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills in systems engineering or project management.
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Senior Orbit Analyst

Senior Orbit Analyst

KBR

Springfield, VA • On-site

$159K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 368 rated engineering


Job description

Title:

Senior Orbit Analyst

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.

Why Join Us?

  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

This is a contingent position based upon contract award

KBR is seeking a Senior Orbit Analyst that will provide expert-level orbital analysis, mission planning, and operational decision support for highly classified space systems. This role leads complex trajectory analysis, conjunction assessment, and maneuver planning activities for critical national security missions. The analyst serves as a technical authority during routine and time-critical operations, providing actionable recommendations that ensure mission success and orbital safety. The position contributes directly to operational strategy, process improvement, and the integration of advanced analytical capabilities. This role operates in a high-tempo, mission-focused environment supporting 24/7 space operations.

This role is performed full-time on site at a government facility in Springfield, Virginia, and is contingent upon contract award.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Lead complex orbital mechanics analyses, trajectory modeling, and conjunction assessments for operational and planned missions
  • Develop, validate, and approve maneuver strategies to mitigate collision risks and support long-term mission objectives
  • Serve as the primary technical expert for satellite orbit determination, propagation, and performance assessment
  • Provide authoritative recommendations to mission leadership during time-sensitive operational events and anomaly resolution
  • Coordinate orbital analysis activities with internal mission teams and external mission partners to ensure orbital safety and compliance
  • Oversee and refine orbital analysis methodologies, tools, and automation to improve accuracy and operational efficiency
  • Develop and deliver detailed technical briefings and decision-support products for senior mission and operations leadership
  • Mentor and technically guide junior and intermediate orbit analysts, supporting workforce development and mission continuity
  • Participate in 24/7 operational shift rotations as required to support continuous mission execution

Required Qualifications:

  • Senior-level experience:
  • Master's degree with 11+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise; OR
  • Bachelor's degree with 12+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise; OR
  • No degree with 14+ years of relevant experience with demonstrated expertise
  • Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance with adjudicated polygraph
  • Extensive expertise in orbital mechanics, astrodynamics, and satellite mission analysis
  • Significant hands-on experience performing conjunction assessment, collision avoidance, and maneuver planning
  • Proficiency with advanced orbital analysis and mission planning software (e.g., STK, GMAT, FreeFlyer)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience supporting IC space mission operations
  • Advanced proficiency in scripting or programming for orbital analysis and automation (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • In-depth knowledge of space traffic management practices, orbital debris mitigation standards, and multinational coordination frameworks

Basic Compensation:

$159,900 - $195,400

This range is for the Virginia area only

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Additional Compensation:

KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998