Software Engineer, Flight Dynamics
Muon Space is seeking a Flight Dynamics Software Engineer to join our Mission Planning Platform team. This role focuses on developing and maintaining orbit determination and flight dynamics software for our constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) Earth-observation satellites. The successful candidate will work closely with our flight dynamics lead to build, operate, and enhance the ground systems that track satellite positions and plan their trajectories, directly impacting mission success.
Key responsibilities include operating and evolving Muon's orbit determination pipeline by integrating tracking data with dynamic models to estimate and predict spacecraft states. The engineer will investigate and resolve orbit determination anomalies as part of continuous operational support, support orbit propagation and prediction for mission planning and collision avoidance, and develop automation for routine flight dynamics workflows to advance autonomous constellation operations. Additionally, the role involves contributing to the development of Muon's flight dynamics software and collaborating with systems and operations teams to support maneuver planning and execution.
The ideal candidate will possess a B.S. or higher in aerospace engineering, astrodynamics, physics, applied mathematics, or a related field, along with at least 2 years of experience in orbit determination or general flight dynamics. Proficiency in C++ and Python is required, as well as a solid understanding of orbit determination theories and methods, including batch least squares and statistical filtering approaches. Familiarity with modern software engineering practices such as version control, code review, and automated testing is essential. The ability to translate first-principles analysis into production-level code and comfort working in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities are also important.
Preferred qualifications include experience with spacecraft or mission operations environments, familiarity with astrodynamics data formats like TLEs and OEMs, experience in propulsion planning or maneuver design for LEO satellites, and knowledge of scheduling or constrained optimization problems such as pass scheduling and contact planning. Experience with cloud-based services or ground software systems and comfort working in Linux-based development environments are also advantageous.
At Muon Space, we offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity compensation, and benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability and life insurance. We provide three weeks of paid vacation for new employees, 12 paid holidays, unlimited sick time, and paid parental leave. Our mission embraces the entire planet, and we are dedicated to creating a diverse and dynamic workforce. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet every qualification listed.