Flight Dynamics Engineer III (Trajectory)

DescriptionJob Title: Flight Dynamics Engineer III (Trajectory)Location: Leander, TXEmployment Type: Direct HireIndustry: Aerospace & DefenseCompensation: $190K /YearSchedule: 40 Hours/WeekAbout the Opportunity:We're seeking a Flight Dynamics Engineer III to design and optimize spacecraft trajectories and maneuver sequences for missions spanning LEO and cislunar space. You'll combine advanced mission design with hands-on flight dynamics operations, working closely with cross-functional teams to turn mission concepts into executable operations while supporting mission-critical activities from concept through operations.Why You'll Love Working Here:Supportive, team-driven culture that values collaboration, transparency, and accountability.Opportunity to grow your career with a global workforce solutions leader serving multiple industries.People-first environment that encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work.Strong focus on partnership, innovation, and delivering meaningful results for clients and candidates.Why This Opportunity is Exciting:This role offers the chance to join a company that prioritises both people and performance-where your contributions directly impact client success while giving you room to grow and develop professionally.About Acara SolutionsAcara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider-we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of experience in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to their needs, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.Sound like a good fit?APPLY TODAYWhat You'll Do:Optimize spacecraft trajectories and maneuver sequences while balancing delta-V, mission duration, and payload requirements.Develop maneuver-targeting algorithms, error budgets, sensitivity analyses, and contingency or abort plans.Support spacecraft missions as a flight dynamics operator, including maneuver reconstruction and spacecraft model improvement.Verify and validate flight dynamics models and software using analytical solutions, benchmarks, flight data, and unit tests.Develop technical documentation and collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate mission designs into operational procedures and command sequences.Job RequirementsWhat You'll Bring:Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering or Physics or Mathematics5+ years of experience in spacecraft flight dynamics with significant depth in mission design or maneuver planning5+ years of experience in supporting operational spacecraft missions through multiple mission phases5+ years of experience in software development and modeling/simulation for spaceflight applicationsWhat Sets You Apart:Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering or Physics or MathematicsPhDExpert-level proficiency in STK for spacecraft trajectory designPython proficiency and experience with JPL's MONTE software suiteSoftware engineering expertise including skills in version control (Git), code review, automated testing, documentation, and CI/CD workflowsComprehensive knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and their impact on trajectory design and maneuver planningAdvanced understanding of orbital mechanics theory and applicationsUnderstanding of spacecraft attitude control and its impact on maneuver execution accuracyStrong understanding of targeting and optimization methodsKnowledge of estimation theory and uncertainty modelingWorking knowledge of Python and LinuxProficiency with one or more commercial trajectory design software tools (STK, FreeFlyer, GMAT, or similar)Proven ability to mentor and develop junior engineers while managing technical responsibilities.Additional Information:Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check and drug screen.In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.Under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), all employees assigned to this client must provide documentation verifying their status as a 'U.S. Person,' as defined in ITAR clause 120.15. A U.S. Person is a protected individual under the anti-discrimination provisions of U.S. immigration laws.After you apply, you may receive a call or message from our AI Talent Scout about this role or other opportunities that match your skills and preferences. AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic information, and identifying whether there's a mutual fit.The call or chat may be recorded so that our recruiting team can review it - they make all final hiring decisions, while AI agent simply helps move you forward faster. The best part? They are available 24/7, so you can connect whenever it's convenient for you.By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Acara Solutions and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at Website Privacy Policy | AcaraAleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.