Flight Dynamics Engineer

About Catalyx Space

Catalyx Space is at the forefront of developing next-generation entry systems for groundbreaking space applications. We are dedicated to innovation and precision in the aerospace industry.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Flight Dynamics Engineer to join our dynamic team in Ahmedabad, India. In this role, you will be instrumental in building and executing trajectory simulations, accurately predicting landing zones, and defining critical performance envelopes for our advanced reentry missions. You will collaborate closely with our Aerodynamics, Systems, Propulsion, and Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) teams to ensure our vehicles perform precisely as designed.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain sophisticated trajectory simulation tools using languages such as Python, MATLAB, or similar.
• Design and analyze reentry trajectories, rigorously evaluating vehicle performance characteristics.
• Estimate precise landing zones and downrange footprints for mission planning.
• Work collaboratively with aerodynamics teams to accurately model vehicle moments and coefficients.
• Define and create vehicle envelopes and essential safety corridors.
• Provide precise burn timing and attitude profiles crucial for successful mission planning.
• Support the sizing of actuators and control surfaces to optimize vehicle control.
• Manage and optimize the ΔV budget for all mission phases.
• Serve as a key interface with internal operations teams, hardware development teams, and external regulatory bodies, including the FAA and DGCA.
• Actively participate in multi-disciplinary vehicle systems investigations to drive mission design, vehicle architecture, and the refinement of analysis methodologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related technical field.
• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in trajectory analysis, orbital mechanics, and modeling & simulation.
• A strong and comprehensive understanding of orbital mechanics, flight dynamics principles, and reentry trajectory analysis.
• Proven experience with numerical simulation tools, including Python, MATLAB, or C++.
• Hands-on experience utilizing STK (Systems Tool Kit) and GMAT (General Mission Analysis Tool).
• Experience in building or actively working with 6-DOF trajectory models.
• Familiarity with aerodynamic databases and their application in trajectory modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively across diverse engineering teams, including Aerodynamics, Structures, and GNC.

Preferred Skills

• Demonstrated project or professional experience in spacecraft systems engineering.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Flexibility to work extended hours and/or weekends when required to meet project deadlines.