Principal Astronomical Engineer
$150,000–$270,000 year
On-siteIrvine, California, United States
Job Summary
Principal Astronomical Engineer at Turion Space leading the design, development, and implementation of astronautical engineering solutions across mission operations, flight dynamics, flight software, and mission/systems engineering. This deeply technical leadership role sets the standard for rigor across the astronautics stack, from spacecraft state algorithms to the software and test infrastructure that proves it works before orbit. Responsibilities include leading design and development, building software and systems for space applications, ensuring quality and rigor of engineering processes, driving 100% test coverage against canonical sources of truth, collaborating with cross-functional teams, contributing to documentation and code reviews, and traveling to Irvine, CA headquarters and other locations as needed. Qualifications include advanced degree in a related field, 8–20 years of experience in astronautical engineering, expertise in space environment modeling, navigation, guidance, attitude control, mission planning, proficiency in C/C++/Python, build systems, VCS, CI/CD, and the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance; ITAR considerations and U.S. citizenship are required.
Required Qualifications
- M.S. in Astronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering with an astronautics emphasis, or a related technical field
- 8 to 20 years of professional experience in astronautical engineering
- Demonstrated ability to develop astronautics applications supporting mission operations, flight dynamics, flight software, and mission/systems engineering
- Experience designing and implementing software for space applications, including but not limited to:
- Space environment modeling and simulation
- Spacecraft navigation and guidance algorithms
- Spacecraft attitude control systems
- Space mission planning and analysis tools
- Expert-level understanding of the technical and operational aspects of astronautical engineering, including but not limited to:
- Propagation
- Time scale and reference frame transformations
- Coordinate systems and conversions
- Maneuver planning
- Safety of flight analysis and operations
- Orbit determination and state estimation
Desired Qualifications
- Working experience with industry-standard tools relevant to the role, such as:
- MATLAB/Simulink
- STK/Astrogator
- Experience developing enterprise-grade astronautics libraries and applications.
- Operational experience using astronautics applications to support space missions.
- This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8…
- Benefits: We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and marke…
- Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
- Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan with a 3% Employer Direct Contribution to help you plan for your future.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.
- Parental Leave: Paid parental leave following the birth of a newborn or adoption.
- Emotional Wellbeing: A no-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your household’s emotional health and wellbeing.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing internal training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
- Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive
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