Hikinex is hiring a Senior Orbit Dynamics and Mission Analysis Engineer

The company provides full relocation support, including immigration assistance, and offers a relocation bonus upon arrival in Montreal. Selected candidates may work remotely during the initial months while their immigration process is being completed; however, the long-term expectation is for the individual to transition to onsite work in Montreal once relocation has been finalized. Key Responsibilities: · Lead the development and execution of advanced orbit dynamics and mission analysis tasks for various space missions. · Architect, design, and optimize complex satellite trajectories, maneuvers (low-thrust, impulsive), and constellation configurations using STK (including modules like Astrogator, Optimizer, Analysis Workbench) and custom tools. · Develop, implement, and validate high-fidelity simulation models and analysis software using Python, MATLAB, and/or C# to support mission design, performance assessment, and trade studies. · Perform and oversee specialized analyses: advanced coverage, communications link budgets, conjunction assessment and collision avoidance strategies, re-entry predictions, orbit determination, and attitude dynamics interactions. · Define mission requirements related to trajectory and orbital performance; contribute to system architecture development and trade-offs. · Develop novel analysis techniques and automate complex simulation workflows. · Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers within the team. · Prepare and present detailed technical reports, analysis results, and recommendations to internal teams, management, and external customers/stakeholders. · Interface with other subsystems (GNC, Systems, Software, Operations) to ensure mission success. Required Qualifications: · Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field; Or a Bachelor's degree with significant additional relevant experience (typically 9+ years). · Minimum of seven (7) years of professional, post-graduation experience directly related to orbit dynamics, astrodynamics, trajectory optimization, and space mission design and analysis. · Expert-level proficiency with Systems Tool Kit (STK) / Satellite Tool Kit (STK), including advanced modules (e.g., Astrogator, Optimizer, Coverage, Comm) and experience with STK automation/scripting (via API, Connect). · Advanced programming proficiency and demonstrated experience developing analysis tools, models, or simulations in Python and MATLAB. · In-depth theoretical and practical understanding of advanced orbital mechanics, perturbation theory, estimation techniques (orbit determination), and trajectory optimization methods (gradient-based, evolutionary). · Proven ability to lead technical analyses, conduct complex trade studies, and solve challenging astrodynamics problems independently. · Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. · Strong written and verbal communication skills in English. French language is considered favorably. Complementary skills/knowledge: · PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field with a focus on astrodynamics or orbital mechanics. · Experience with other simulation environments (GMAT, FreeFlyer, Orekit) or specialized tools (SPICE). · Experience with C/C++ programming. · Experience in spacecraft Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) analysis or design. · Experience with multi-body dynamics and large constellations. · Experience with satellite operations, particularly flight dynamics aspects. · Experience with software development best practices (version control with Git, testing, documentation, CI/CD). · Record of publications or conference presentations in relevant fields