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Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... engineers to manage on-orbit performance and develop flight dynamics operations processes. Export Control Requirement: Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S ...

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Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior flight dynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior flight dynamics engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges a Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer faces when working on new aircraft or spacecraft projects?

A Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer often encounters challenges such as integrating complex aerodynamic models with real-world data, ensuring stability and control requirements are met under varying flight conditions, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams including systems engineers, software developers, and test pilots. These projects frequently involve tight deadlines, rapidly evolving requirements, and the need to balance performance, safety, and regulatory compliance. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to navigate the technical and organizational complexities of these high-stakes projects.

What are Senior Flight Dynamics Engineers?

Senior Flight Dynamics Engineers are highly experienced professionals responsible for analyzing and controlling the motion of aircraft and spacecraft. They use advanced mathematical models and simulations to ensure optimal flight performance, stability, and safety. These engineers often lead teams, design flight control systems, and solve complex aerodynamic challenges during the design, testing, and operational phases of aerospace projects. Their expertise is critical in both commercial and defense aviation industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer, you need deep expertise in aerodynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory, typically supported by a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software like MATLAB, Simulink, and flight dynamics analysis tools, as well as experience with programming languages such as Python or C++, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting complex findings. These skills ensure accurate modeling, safe and efficient flight operations, and successful delivery of aerospace projects.

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

AspectSenior Flight Dynamics EngineerFlight Dynamics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related; experience preferredBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, simulation labs, mission planningDesign teams, simulation labs, mission planning
Employer & IndustrySpace agencies, aerospace companies, satellite operators

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Flight Dynamics Engineers typically have more experience and lead complex projects, while Flight Dynamics Engineers focus on analysis and support tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments within the aerospace industry.

More about Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer, Mission Operations

Senior Flight Dynamics Engineer, Mission Operations

Katalyst Space Technologies

Broomfield, CO โ€ข On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Katalyst Description:
We build robotic spacecraft that enable dynamic space operations, creating a future where maneuvering, upgrading, refueling, and exploration are as routine as they are on Earth. Getting to space and overcoming the gravity well is only half the story. What you do there is the future. We are not building the trains. We are building the machines that lay down the tracks. By developing the foundational capabilities that make sustained, responsive operations possible, we enable a new era of space activity that strengthens national security and ensures freedom of action in an increasingly contested domain.
Katalyst Culture:
Working at Katalyst is intense, hands-on, and deeply rewarding. You'll take real ownership and see your work move from concept to operations in an environment where the problems are hard and the impact is real. We value humility, craftsmanship, and doing things the right way, even when it's harder. You'll work closely with thoughtful, driven teammates who push each other to do their best.
What You'll Do
  • Provide Flight Dynamics and orbital mechanics subject matter expertise for mission operations Design and analyze spacecraft trajectories throughout mission lifecycle, with a focus on rendezvous proximity operations
  • Support ground software and and mission operations teams to develop automation tools Develop, validate, and maintain flight dynamics tools and simulation environments
  • Perform maneuver planning and delta-V optimization
  • Analyze spaceraft navigation performance and state estimation accuracy
  • Help create DRMs for proposals, presentations and other customer facing events.

What We're Looking For
Required
  • A Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Space Systems, or Software Engineering, or an equivalent Engineering or Applied Physics degree
  • The role requires 7+ years of experience in spacecraft flight dynamics
  • Proficiency in Python/C++
  • Technical knowledge of state estimation, navigation, maneuver, trajectory planning, and collision avoidance, orbit determination and operations
  • Experience using STK, GMAT, Basalisk, or similar.
  • Git version control, or an equivalent version control system.
  • Experience supporting critical operations and working/ making decisions in high stress environments.
  • Ability to collaborate with interdciplinary teams in fast paced environments

Your Ideal Background
Preferred
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
  • Experience with rendezvous, proximity operations, docking, inspection, servicing, formation flying, or relative navigation mission design.
  • Experience supporting real-time or near-real-time flight dynamics operations, including maneuver planning, pass preparation, state assessment, anomaly response, and operator decision support.
  • Demonstrated ability to build internal engineering tools, automate analysis workflows, and convert complex astrodynamics problems into usable operational products.

Additional Requirements: Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
Compensation and Benefits: Your base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. The anticipated salary range for this role is $140,000 - $180,000 annually.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Katalyst. You will also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of the Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan, as well as a relocation bonus and other discretionary bonuses. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, and unlimited Paid Time Off.
At Katalyst our work on projects involving the U.S. Department of Defense requires adherence to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130, which requires compliance with U.S. export laws before allowing employees to perform certain positions. Currently, our available roles necessitate access to ITAR-controlled information, and as a result, Katalyst would have to ensure any non-US person is authorized access to ITAR information before the commencement of employment. We are committed to equal employment opportunities and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.