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Orbital Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

APEX TK

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Perform advanced modeling related to orbital mechanics (orbit determination, orbital maneuvering ... Bachelor's Degree in a STEM related field such as Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Aerospace ...

HEO

R&D Solutions Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... orbital mechanics, or satellite operations, with or in support of the US Intelligence Community (IC) or DoD. • Demonstrated experience in non-recurring engineering and the ability to build custom ...

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Orbital Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$145.6K

$172.5K

How much do orbital engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for orbital engineering in Virginia is $145,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an orbital engineer?

An Orbital Engineering job involves the design, analysis, and management of satellite trajectories, space missions, and spacecraft navigation. Engineers in this field use physics, mathematics, and software to ensure that satellites and other space assets operate within desired orbits. Responsibilities may include orbital mechanics analysis, propulsion system design, and mission planning. This role is critical for applications such as communications, Earth observation, and deep-space exploration.

What does an orbital engineer do?

As an Orbital Engineer, your daily tasks often include designing satellite trajectories, performing orbital analysis, and using simulation software to predict spacecraft behavior throughout a mission. You may collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, such as systems engineers, mission planners, and ground operations staff, to ensure all project aspects align with mission goals and constraints. Regular responsibilities also involve reviewing and updating documentation, troubleshooting anomalous data, and participating in project meetings to address technical challenges. The work environment is generally dynamic, involving both independent analysis and frequent teamwork to support successful mission execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in orbital engineering?

To thrive in Orbital Engineering, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and applied mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with orbital mechanics simulation tools (such as STK or GMAT), CAD software, and experience with industry standards like NASA or ESA certification protocols are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart. These competencies are critical to ensuring the safety, performance, and successful coordination of projects in the highly complex and regulated aerospace environment.

What are popular job titles related to Orbital Engineering jobs in Virginia?

For Orbital Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Orbital Engineering jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Orbital Engineering jobs in Virginia are:

Orbital Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Orbital Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,608 per year, or $70 per hour.

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

APEX TK LLC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

APEX TK is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join our team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting‑edge projects within the aerospace domain.

Responsibilities
  • Define modeling requirements from user needs and system architecture and develop scripts to automate scenario modeling and performance analysis.
  • Perform advanced modeling related to orbital mechanics (orbit determination, orbital maneuvering, and spacecraft flight dynamics) and/or sensor phenomenology (optics/radar/RF).
  • Use and develop cutting‑edge modeling and simulation tools and algorithms to help address some of the most challenging issues regarding Space Situational Awareness (SSA) for the Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of Defense (DOD).
  • Develop code/scripts to develop algorithms, perform analyses, and automate data processing to model space conflict scenarios for system evaluation and mission effectiveness.
  • Work in a collaborative team environment studying and analyzing a wide variety of interesting and complex problems in the Space domain.
  • Incorporate phenomenological modeling principles into relevant models and simulations.
Required Qualifications
  • 2–10 years of relevant experience.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM related field such as Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Aerospace, Computer Science, etc.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI w/ CI Poly Clearance.
  • Experience performing space‑related engineering analysis (collecting, organizing, analyzing data) using one or more of the following: C++, Python, R, SQL, PostgreSQL, Linux, MATLAB, VBA, or STK.
  • Ability to communicate findings and recommendations to internal and external customers.
  • Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
  • Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in a STEM related field.
  • Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.
  • Experience with non‑cooperative target tracking.
  • Experience with collection & revisit modeling.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).
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