Trajectory Engineer
Listed on 2026-09-03
-
Engineering
Systems Engineer, Aerospace / Aviation / Avionics
Job Title
TRAJECTORY ENGINEER
Location
Category
Job Type
Full-Time
Experienced (Non-Manager)
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Igniters operate in the world’s most demanding environment. Igniters are self-motivated, mission-driven, and relentless in solving the Warfighters’ hardest problems. We move fast, think differently, and execute with precision to tackle high-stakes challenges across AI/ML, space and missile defense intelligence, EMSO, advanced analytics, and programmatic domains. As an employee-owned SDVOSB headquartered in Huntsville, AL, our team delivers mission-critical impact for the Army, Air Force, Space Force, MDA, NASA, DIA, and FBI.
Ignite exists to outpace the threat and deliver results that matter in the moments that count.
Ignite is currently seeking a driven, detail-oriented Trajectory Engineer to support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Targets and Countermeasures Engineering Directorates. In this role, you will provide critical engineering expertise to the team responsible for performing pre-mission trajectory validation and performance analysis for the for the flight test events along with onsite expertise during flight events.
Job RequirementsResponsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Support the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Targets and Countermeasures (TC) program office with development of ballistic missile target vehicles
- Support the TC System Engineering team in all aspects of target design, analysis, and test to include requirements development and assessment, modeling and simulation, test analysis and reporting
- Technical focus areas include modeling and simulation, trajectory development and analysis, coordinate system transformations, and vehicle performance assessments
- Generate and analyze target vehicle 6
DOF trajectory data - Support mission planning, analysis, and reporting activities
- Collaborate with a dynamic team of experts in multiple technical areas to develop analysis and engineering tools
- Engage in database requirements definition, schema development, interface development, testing, data management, and documentation
- Utilize knowledge, skills and experience with missile characteristics (physical, kinematics, signatures) and engineering to support engineering activities and data product development
- Bachelor's degree in STEM with 3+ years of relevant experience
- Active DoD Secret security clearance, which requires US Citizenship
- Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, Java, C#, and other programming languages
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
- Familiarity with MDA and/or DoD programs and processes
- Experience with trajectory development tools (e.g., TAOS, POST)
- Experience in any or all of the following disciplines:
Design, CAD, Trajectory, Radar Cross Section (RCS) Signatures, Optical Signatures - Strong attention to detail and ability to efficiently perform multiple tasks
- Ability to communicate detailed technical information to technical and non-technical personnel
- Must have an active Secret Security Clearance
- Bachelor’s Degree in STEM
- Must be a US citizen and be able to hold an active Security Clearance at the Secret Level.
We are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers, committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state or local law.
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