What are the responsibilities and job description for the Satellite Mission Modeling Engineer position at Ursa Space Systems?
About Ursa Space Systems
Ursa Space Systems is building ground-breaking solutions to deliver global intelligence to organizations around the world. Through our SAR/EO/RF satellite network, and data fusion expertise, Ursa Space detects real-time changes in the physical world to expand transparency. Our subscription and custom services enable you to access satellite imagery and analytic results with no geographic, political or weather-related limitations.
Job Summary
Ursa Space Systems seeks a highly skilled and motivated Satellite Mission Modeling Engineer to design, analyze, and optimize complex satellite missions using commercial satellite providers. This role involves leveraging advanced tools, such as Systems Tool Kit (STK) by Ansys, to model multi-vendor satellite constellations, optimize tasking, and achieve mission objectives.
This full-time exempt position will report directly to the COO in support of Supply Chain Management.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in engineering, physics, operations research, or a related field, with experience in integrating and coordinating diverse satellite systems for data acquisition and mission success.
Job Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain detailed mission models utilizing commercial satellite constellations and providers to accomplish diverse and complex objectives.
- Analyze and optimize satellite tasking and data collection strategies based on cost, latency, and mission requirements.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design missions that integrate multiple commercial satellite systems, ensuring seamless operation and data flow.
- Conduct trade studies to evaluate the performance of different satellite providers, considering coverage, cost, latency, and reliability.
- Perform "what-if" scenario analyses to assess mission resilience under varying conditions, including satellite availability and environmental constraints.
- Automate simulation workflows and data analysis using programming/scripting tools (e.g., Python).
- Generate comprehensive reports and visualizations to communicate modeling insights to stakeholders and support decision-making.
- Stay informed about the latest advancements in commercial satellite capabilities, tools, and industry trends to enhance mission modeling approaches.
- All other duties as assigned
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Operations Research, or a related field
- At least three years of experience with satellite modeling tools such as STK
- Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, satellite operations, and mission design principles
- Familiarity with commercial satellite constellations and providers (e.g., commercial SAR, Optical, RF providers, etc.)
- Proficiency in programming/scripting languages (e.g., Python) for automating simulations and analyzing results
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Location
- Ithaca, NY (office environment)
- Remote positions also available
Preferred Skills
- Experience in programming languages, such as Python, is a plus
- Familiarity with Google Workspace and Slack
Compensation
- $90,000 to $120,000, based on experience
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive Compensation
- Discretionary PTO & Flexible Scheduling
- Stock Options
- 401(k) Match
- 100% Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage for you and your dependents
- FSA & HSA Plans
- Employer-paid Life Insurance
- Employer-paid LTD and STD for Parental and Family Care
- 11 Paid Holidays
- Employee Resource Groups
- Educational Assistance Program
- Professional Development Opportunities
- And more…
Company Values
- Use the team, people!
- Figure it out. Own it.
- Aim for elegant simplicity.
- Empower diversity & inclusivity.
- Do the right thing. Period.
- Be scrappy!
One of our company values is to empower diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Ursa Space Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.
Salary : $90,000 - $120,000
