Senior LEO Flight Dynamics Analyst

About the role

You will lead the end to end mission planning and operational execution for the LEO satellite constellation covering orbit raising, station keeping maneuvers, and final disposal operations in a complex multi satellite environment. In this role you will perform detailed orbit determination and maneuver design using high fidelity propagation models while ensuring compliance with regulatory constraints and operational best practices. You will analyze close approach events and coordinate collision avoidance strategies in partnership with external data sources and internal teams to protect the constellation and maintain operational integrity. You will mentor junior flight dynamics analysts, refine standard operating procedures, and drive the adoption of efficient workflows that improve accuracy and reduce turnaround time for mission critical decisions. You will serve as the technical authority for orbit analysis during anomaly investigations and support the development of contingency plans to mitigate future risks. You will collaborate with satellite systems engineers, ground operations staff, and external partners to translate mission requirements into precise orbit maintenance strategies. You will leverage advanced analytical tools to optimize fuel usage, extend satellite life, and support strategic planning for future constellation deployments. You will ensure all flight dynamics activities align with Telesat's global service objectives and contribute to the reliable delivery of secure communications worldwide.

Key facts

What you'll do

Develop and execute detailed orbit propagation scenarios for LEO satellites using high fidelity models to support mission planning and operational decision making.

Design and assess orbit raising and station keeping maneuver strategies while optimizing fuel consumption and maintaining long term mission objectives.

Perform collision avoidance analysis by evaluating conjunction data messages, assessing close approach risks, and recommending timely mitigation actions.

Analyze orbit determination solutions using tracking data from multiple sources to improve accuracy and validate performance against predicted trajectories.

Refine operational flight dynamics workflows and documentation to improve efficiency, repeatability, and clarity for cross functional teams.

Lead the technical review of maneuver designs and coordinate with satellite systems and ground operations to ensure implementation feasibility.

Mentor junior analysts by providing guidance on analytical methods, tool usage, and best practices in orbit propagation and maneuver execution.

Support the integration of new analytical methods and tools into existing operational processes while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

Collaborate with external organizations and data providers to assess potential impacts from space surveillance and debris environment changes.

Translate high level mission objectives into actionable flight dynamics tasks that align with overall constellation operations and strategic goals.

Monitor space weather conditions and assess their potential impact on satellite operations, adjusting plans as necessary to maintain safe and efficient maneuvers.

Contribute to the development of contingency plans and post mission analyses to improve future operational performance and reduce risk.

Ensure all flight dynamics activities are documented in accordance with internal standards and are readily accessible for audits and reviews.

Participate in on call rotation to provide timely support for operational events and respond to emergent situations affecting the satellite constellation.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance the accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of flight dynamics processes across the LEO program.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in flight dynamics, orbit determination, or mission analysis within the satellite industry or a related aerospace field.

Strong proficiency in analytical methods, mathematical modeling, and orbit propagation techniques applied to real world operational scenarios.

Solid understanding of orbital mechanics, including perturbation theory, maneuver design, and long term orbit maintenance strategies.

Proven ability to work with tracking data, measurement models, and estimation techniques to assess satellite position and performance.

Excellent problem solving skills with the capacity to analyze complex situations, evaluate alternatives, and recommend effective solutions.

Strong written and verbal communication skills to convey technical concepts to both specialist and non specialist stakeholders.

Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a fast paced, deadline driven satellite operations environment.

Willingness to adhere to strict operational procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements governing satellite maneuvers and space operations.

Proficiency in industry standard software tools, scripting languages, and data analysis methods relevant to flight dynamics and orbit analysis.

Commitment to maintaining high levels of accuracy, attention to detail, and reliability in all analytical work and operational support activities.

Willingness to support on call responsibilities and respond promptly to operational events that may impact the satellite constellation.

Understanding of space surveillance, conjunction assessment practices, and collision avoidance processes is strongly aligned with current operational needs.

Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and reporting requirements related to satellite operations and space situational awareness.

Demonstrated capacity to mentor colleagues, share expertise, and contribute to the development of junior team members.

Nice to have

Prior experience with LEO satellite constellations or systems operating in low earth orbit environments.

Exposure to mission planning and operations for broadband or communications satellite services.

Experience with automated analysis tools, data visualization platforms, and operational decision support systems.

Background in coordinating with space surveillance networks or external data providers for conjunction assessment.

Familiarity with regulatory processes involving the Canadian regulator or international frequency coordination organizations.

Experience supporting multi satellite operations and managing complex maneuver campaigns across a distributed ground segment.

Practical notes

This role may require occasional travel to support mission operations, attend workshops, or participate in cross functional meetings as directed by Telesat leadership.

Candidates must be eligible for a detailed security clearance as required by Canadian government regulations for space operations roles.

This position operates under standard employment hours with potential for on call duties during critical mission events or emergency response situations.

All candidates must comply with Telesat's employment policies and regulatory obligations related to satellite operations and data handling.