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# On-Orbit Test Astrodynamics Engineer

- **Company:** Northrop Grumman
- **Location:** Colorado Springs, CO, United States (Remote available)
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $129,300.0 - $193,900.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, C++ (Programming Language), Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Test Execution Engine, Data Processing, Orbital Mechanics, Operational Systems
- **Published:** October 23, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.techcareers.com/job.asp?id=3466584350&tx=ZT212THZ&pt=1&aff=0B19D771-A501-4A5E-8338-2A822B784D54&utm_source=Job%20Feed&utm_medium=textkernel&utm_campaign=DE&utm_term=0B19D771-A501-4A5E-8338-2A822B784D54

## About the Role

* Bachelor's degree in engineering or other STEM related degree with 8 years of experience in a related engineering field such as mechanical, electrical, aerospace and/or operations; 6 years with a Master's; 4 years with a PhD
 * Requires an active Top-Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance at time of application.
 * Relevant experience with mission planning and/or orbital analyst responsibilities and/or processes focusing on RPO
 * Familiarity with running physics-based simulations and post-processing results
 * Experience in astrodynamics and orbital mechanics. Knowledge of fundamental numerical propagators and force models for earth-orbiting space vehicles, preferably for vehicles in geosynchronous orbit.
 * Advanced understanding of relative motion problems and mission planning for RPO missions.
 * Experience with navigation filters and image processing techniques algorithms
 * Knowledge of satellite operations engineering disciplines to include attitude control, power management, thermal control, propulsion, command and data handling, flight and ground software, and anomaly determination and resolution

Preferred Qualifications:

 * Experience in Python and/or MATLAB. C or C++ would be preferred
 * Have a comprehension of different astrodynamics coordinate frames such as ECI and RIC
 * Background/fundamental understanding of performing statistical analysis
 * Previous experience supporting mission simulation, scripting, and verification activities.
 * Previous experience with troubleshooting, anomaly resolution and performing analysis on operational systems
 * Familiarity using COTS astrodynamics analysis tools (FreeFlyer preferred)
 * Familiarity with GNC algorithms for satellites

#COSpace

#SpaceSysEngJobs

#SpaceEngJobs

## Description

Expand your horizons, advance your career, and contribute to a secure future for generations. Northrop Grumman's Space Sector invites you to bring your pioneering spirit to our collaborative teams. As an On-Orbit Test Astrodynamics Engineer located in Colorado Springs, CO, you'll be a linchpin in missions of paramount importance, defining the art of the possible from day one.

This position is 100% on site and does not support remote work.

This position will work a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off.

Your mission, should you choose to accept:

 * Drive and develop On-Orbit Test activities including mission planning, scenario development, dry-run/rehearsal and test execution.
 * Perform pre-test and execution actions including mission plan creation & review, safety of flight analysis, and vehicle phasing analysis
 * Integrate closely with vendors, cognizant engineers, subject matter experts, orbital analysists, and systems engineers to ensure overall test plan is realistic, achievable, and meets customer intent.
 * Conduct analysis on test feasibility while considering limits, constraints, estimated fuel usage, vehicle capabilities - while also incorporating overall test community objectives
 * Lead on-console operations during On-Orbit Test activities as Test Director
 * Lead testing using simulators and assist in resolving any discrepancies

If this job description reads like it was written specifically for you, consider joining our team!

This position is contingent upon the candidate obtaining final clearances and program access(es) within a reasonable period of time as determined by the company.