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Trajectory Optimization Jobs in Laurel, MD (NOW HIRING)

Draper

Senior Guidance & Control Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$82K - $220K/yr

Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques. Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems. Significant knowledge of design and ...

Draper

Principal Guidance & Control Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$95K - $245K/yr

Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques. Strong leadership and team management skills. Ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals. Excellent ...

Potomac

Paid Ads Specialist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

As we continue our aggressive growth trajectory, we are looking for a Paid Ads Specialist (Multi ... Performance Analytics & Optimization * Monitor campaign performance and identify opportunities for ...

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Trajectory Optimization information

See Laurel, MD salary details

$15.9K

$55.3K

$101.1K

How much do trajectory optimization jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for trajectory optimization in Laurel, MD is $55,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $71,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trajectory Optimization vs Motion Planning Engineer?

AspectTrajectory OptimizationMotion Planning Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, knowledge of optimization algorithmsEngineering or robotics degree, familiarity with planning algorithms
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, robotics companies, aerospaceRobotics firms, autonomous vehicle companies, industrial automation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed to generate optimal paths and motions for robots and vehiclesDesigns feasible paths considering obstacles and constraints

Trajectory Optimization focuses on mathematically finding the best possible path for a robot or vehicle by minimizing or maximizing certain criteria. Motion Planning Engineers develop practical, collision-free paths considering environment constraints. While both roles involve path generation, Trajectory Optimization emphasizes mathematical optimization, whereas Motion Planning Engineers focus on real-world implementation and obstacle avoidance.

What is trajectory optimization?

Trajectory optimization is a process used in engineering and robotics to calculate the most efficient path or movement for a system or vehicle, often considering constraints like energy, time, or safety. Professionals in this field use mathematical models and algorithms to develop optimal trajectories, frequently utilizing tools such as MATLAB or Python. The role may require knowledge of control systems, programming, and simulation techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Trajectory Optimization jobs in Laurel, MD?

For Trajectory Optimization jobs in Laurel, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Trajectory Optimization jobs near you

Trajectory Design Engineer

Intuitive Machines LLC

Glen Burnie, MD • On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description


Trajectory Design Engineer

Salary Range: $100,000 - $135,000

Locations:

  • Glen Burnie, MD
  • Houston, TX
  • Denver, CO

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With the first commercial lunar landing in history, multiple NASA lunar missions in development, and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting our customers and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

About The Position

At IM, the Mission Design Group are the Flight Dynamics experts who focus on designing our trajectories, analyzing our vehicle’s performance along those trajectories, and supporting mission operations as mission design and analysis specialists. As a Trajectory Design Engineer in the Mission Design Group, you will be responsible for developing optimal trajectories and mission plans for various space missions, including lunar landings, interplanetary missions, and satellite deployments. You will work closely with multi-disciplinary teams to define mission objectives, model and simulate spacecraft dynamics, and develop robust trajectory solutions to ensure mission success.

Responsibilities:

  • Design and analyze trajectories and constellations for IM missions in Earth-orbiting and Cislunar space, and assist with the operations of those missions in a senior trajectory design capacity.
  • Develop internal tools and techniques to analyze high- and low-thrust performance of spacecraft via stochastic methods
  • Simulate and optimize mission trajectories, accounting for constraints such as fuel efficiency, time, mission duration, safety margins, and navigation/control capabilities.
  • Conduct failure analyses and develop contingency trajectories in response to potential mission anomalies.
  • Work with operations teams develop mission plans and to ensure accurate execution of mission plans and support real-time trajectory corrections during mission operations.
  • Develop internal tools and techniques for operational maneuver planning, and perform that role during IM missions
  • Contribute to technical proposals and presentations for future missions and contract bids.
  • Develop onboard maneuver planning algorithms for RPO and formation flight

Preferred Skills & Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Ph.D. is a plus.
  • 3+ years of experience in mission design, trajectory optimization, or space systems engineering, ideally with experience in lunar or interplanetary missions.
  • Spacecraft trajectory design using industry-standard software, e.g. Copernicus, GMAT, or STK/Astrogator
  • Use Python to create custom trajectory analysis and operations tools
  • Experience in developing and analyzing high-fidelity trajectory simulations.
  • Experience with mission operations and real-time trajectory correction is preferred.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team environment.

US EEO Statement

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.