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Orbital Dynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EVONA

Lead Flight Dynamics Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$116K - $153K/yr

You'll contribute to mission design, trajectory analysis, orbital operations, and the development of autonomous flight dynamics capabilities, working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Astrodynamics Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Astrodynamics Engineer Location: Westminster, CO 80031 Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent Job ... Two-body orbital dynamics * Perturbed low Earth orbit and geosynchronous Earth orbit propagation

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Orbital Dynamics Engineer information

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$60K

$87.7K

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How much do orbital dynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for orbital dynamics engineer in the United States is $87,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an orbital dynamics engineer do?

An Orbital Dynamics Engineer is responsible for analyzing, designing, and predicting the paths of objects in space, such as satellites, spacecraft, and debris. They use principles of physics and mathematics to calculate trajectories, plan orbital maneuvers, and ensure mission objectives are achieved safely and efficiently. Their work is critical for satellite launches, space exploration missions, and maintaining safe operations in increasingly crowded orbits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an orbital dynamics engineer?

To thrive as an Orbital Dynamics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and aerospace engineering, typically supported by at least a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with simulation software such as STK (Systems Tool Kit), MATLAB, and orbital mechanics modeling tools is commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and present complex analyses clearly. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, efficient space missions and ensuring the accuracy of trajectory calculations.

What are some of the main challenges orbital dynamics engineers face when working on satellite missions?

Orbital Dynamics Engineers often encounter challenges related to predicting and managing the effects of gravitational forces, atmospheric drag, and other perturbations on satellite trajectories. They must also solve complex optimization problems to ensure efficient fuel usage and mission success, especially when planning multi-body maneuvers or satellite constellations. Collaborating closely with systems engineers, mission planners, and ground control teams is essential to integrate their calculations into overall mission design and respond to real-time anomalies. Staying updated with advances in simulation tools and space situational awareness is key to meeting these challenges.

What are popular job titles related to Orbital Dynamics Engineer jobs?

For Orbital Dynamics Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Orbital Dynamics Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,739 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Flight Dynamics Engineer

Hampton, VA • On-site

Science and Technology Corporation (STC)
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Science and Technology Corporation (STC)external

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 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)

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