Trajectory Planning/Analysis Engineer

Join Our Mission to Revolutionize Space Logistics!
Explore every ocean in the solar system, collect and store the fluid, and sustain life in space.
At Space Ocean we’re a cutting-edge space startup on a mission to push the boundaries of exploration and innovation to supply resources for humanity’s expansion into space, targeting near-Earth orbit by 2027 and beyond, including Mars.
As we prepare to launch groundbreaking projects, we’re seeking a Trajectory Planning/Analysis Engineer to lead technical excellence and drive the development of next-generation for satellite-based fluid transport missions.

Role Overview
We are seeking a Trajectory Planning/Analysis Engineer to support the planning and analysis of multiple trajectories for a satellite system designed for space-based water transportation to validate a variety of orbits, such as LEO, geostationary, or sun-synchronous to best support the mission. The ideal candidate will have experience modeling and analyzing trajectories to optimize resources and ensure mission and operation requirements can be met. This position reports directly to their project’s technical lead.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and simulate vehicle trajectories considering mission objectives, environmental factors, and operational constraints.
• Develop, validate, and optimize flight plans and trajectories using advanced software tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C++, or specialized aerospace platforms).
• Analyze system performance, modeling effects like faults, uncertainties, or environmental parameters.
• Ensure flight safety by developing criteria for autonomous flight termination and conducting risk assessments in accordance with regulatory standards.
• Coordinate trajectory approval processes and interface with internal teams (e.g., operations, reliability, hardware) and external partners or authorities.
• Prepare and present documentation and analyses supporting launches or mission events.
• Support real-time mission operations, respond to emerging issues, and iterate on plans as needed for multiple overlapping programs.
• Contribute to process automation, data analysis, and continuous improvement efforts for trajectory design pipelines.

What We’re Looking For - Required Qualifications
Education: BS or MS in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
Experience: 2+ years of experience in trajectory planning/analysis, orbital mechanics, spacecraft dynamics/controls and knowledge of HSF mission requirements and protocols.
Software: Experience in one or more of the following: STK, GMAT, FreeFlyer, Satellite Orbit Simulator

Nice-to-Have - Preferred Qualifications

• Strong foundation in orbital mechanics, flight dynamics, and computational modeling.
• Understanding of safety analysis frameworks and regulatory compliance requirements for flight safety.
• Programming Skills are a plus.

Why Join Us?
Equity stake in a high-growth startup.
Remote-friendly with flexible hours.
Cutting-edge tech: Work with advanced tools and platforms
Impact: Directly contribute to missions that redefine space sustainability.

Compensation:
Fractional ownership opportunity throughout the start-up phase. Transition to 1099 upon investor funding and contractual award.

Additional Information:
Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check and comply with US space regulations and security protocols.