Mission Design Engineer

Role overview and responsibilities:

Dhruva Space is seeking a skilled Mission Design Engineer to design and optimize satellite missions for next-generation space applications. The role involves working on orbital mechanics, constellation design, and communication architecture, with hands-on use of STK and ODTK for mission simulation and analysis. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge satellite systems in a fast-paced and collaborative environment.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Design and optimize satellite missions, including orbital mechanics analysis, constellation configuration, and mission planning to achieve desired coverage, latency, and performance targets.
• Conduct detailed simulations using STK (Systems Tool Kit) and ODTK (Orbit Determination Tool Kit) for coverage, revisit time, and trajectory validation.
• Analyze communication links, including uplink, downlink, and inter-satellite links, to ensure robust mission communication performance.
• Develop and evaluate communication system architectures, perform link budget analyses etc.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, simulation reports, and presentations for internal reviews and external stakeholders.
• Support mission operations planning, station-keeping strategies, and end-of-life disposal planning.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of mission design methodologies and automation processes using programming and analytical tools.
• Stay current with advancements in orbital dynamics, satellite communication systems, and space mission design practices.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautics, or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, satellite operations, and constellation design.
• Hands-on experience with STK (Systems Tool Kit) and ODTK (Orbit Determination Tool Kit) for mission simulations and analysis.
• Proficiency in satellite communication systems, link budget calculations, and system-level performance assessment.
• Knowledge of GNSS systems, inter-satellite link design, and optimization techniques.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and international standards for satellite communications.
• Programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for automating simulations and data analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative, and multidisciplinary environment.
• Understanding of station-keeping strategies, mission lifecycle management, and end-of-life disposal planning.