Senior Space Autonomy Engineer

Verus Research • Full-time • Remote • $130k - $180k / year • 1m ago

Verus Research is searching for an experienced Senior Space Autonomy Engineer to lead the development of next-generation autonomous capabilities for spacecraft systems. This role centers on advancing the autonomy of on-orbit assets through the integration of decision-making frameworks into spaceflight software and autonomy pipelines. The ideal candidate will have a deep background in space systems engineering and demonstrated experience developing and deploying autonomy algorithms for space-based applications such as spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control, mission planning, data fusion, fault management, or robotic systems.

The primary role for the Senior Space Autonomy Engineer will be to design and implement intelligent algorithms for spacecraft autonomy, with a focus on decision-making, onboard data processing, and closed-loop control. The role involves developing and validating AI/ML pipelines that enable advanced autonomous behaviors such as anomaly detection, adaptive mission execution, and autonomous rendezvous. The Senior Space Autonomy Engineer will work closely with multidisciplinary teams spanning mission design, spacecraft systems, and software engineering to integrate autonomy solutions from initial concept through flight deployment. This position plays a critical role in pushing the boundaries of current spacecraft autonomy to enable more efficient and resilient missions. This work will require the ability to work both independently and within a team. A successful team member will be able to work on diverse application areas with an initial focus on advancing state of the art in spacecraft autonomy.

The ideal candidate for the Senior Space Autonomy Engineer position will possess strong analytical skills used to solve challenging problems in a fast-paced environment. In addition, they will possess the following:

U.S. Citizenship (required)
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field with a focus on space systems or control theory
5+ years of experience in spacecraft autonomy, or flight software development
Strong foundation in orbital mechanics, estimation theory, and control system design and experience with guidance and control algorithms for spacecraft maneuvers, attitude determination and control, or proximity operations
Familiarity with space systems architectures with relevance to autonomy & decision-making frameworks and spacecraft subsystem integration and flight dynamics simulation tools
Proficiency in C/C++ for modeling and algorithm development; Excellent verbal and written communication skills for documenting technical work and collaborating across engineering teams