Orbit Analyst - Software Engineer

Kratos Defense is building on its flight dynamics software capabilities to support critical, around-the-clock space operations. In the Orbit Analyst (Software Engineer) role, you will work within a team focused on software development alongside COTS flight dynamics products, with hands-on orbit analysis and engineering support for mission needs.

This hybrid position is based in Lanham, MD, supporting software development and orbit analysis activities where reliability matters in continuous operations.

What you will do

• Build and maintain orbit databases used by COTS flight dynamics products to support optimal performance for mission-critical operations.
• Apply, refine, and operationalize orbit design and optimization guidelines for systems running 24x7.
• Analyze customer requirements, identify gaps, and design product enhancements aligned to evolving mission needs.
• Act as a technical liaison between users and flight dynamics products by troubleshooting issues and delivering solutions.
• Partner with customers on product reviews, installations, and testing.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctorate degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 5 years in orbit analysis.
• Minimum 5 years in application or product development.
• Strong foundation in orbital mechanics and celestial mechanics.
• Experience with flight dynamics analysis and operations.
• Proficiency with COTS flight dynamics software.
• Software development experience in C/C++, Python, or Java.
• Familiarity with orbital analysis tools such as STK, FreeFlyer, GMAT, or similar.
• Experience supporting 24x7 operational systems.
• Background in satellite operations or mission design.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Experience with a configuration management system such as Git or Subversion.
• Experience with the software development lifecycle.

Technologies

• C/C++
• Python
• Java
• STK
• FreeFlyer
• GMAT
• Git
• Subversion

Compensation

Salary range: USD 125,000 to 160,000 per year.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Accessibility

If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to the careers site, contact [email protected] or call 858-964-2916.

Pay transparency and applicant privacy

• The company will not discharge or discriminate against employees or applicants for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
• For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review the job applicant privacy notice.