LEO Flight Dynamics Analyst

About the role

The LEO Flight Dynamics Analyst will own the execution of established operational workflows for orbit determination, maneuver planning, and SSA monitoring for the Lightspeed constellation. This role focuses on supporting the development and utilization of the Flight Dynamics System to ensure the reliable operation of Telesat's LEO satellite network. The analyst will gain hands-on experience with flight dynamics tools and mission operations while learning and applying operational best practices in a dynamic engineering environment. They will assist in the system development, updates, and maintenance required to keep the FDS aligned with evolving mission requirements. Collaboration with cross-functional teams will be essential to integrate flight dynamics activities with broader satellite operations and engineering efforts. The position provides a foundational role in maintaining the situational awareness and operational integrity of the constellation through precise tracking and analysis. By executing these responsibilities, the hire will directly contribute to the operational readiness and long-term success of Telesat's innovative LEO broadband service.

Key facts

What you'll do

Develop and maintain operational procedures for orbit determination, maneuver execution, and Space Situational Awareness monitoring specific to the LEO constellation.

Execute routine and ad-hoc analyses of satellite tracking data to evaluate orbit accuracy and performance against mission parameters.

Support the configuration and enhancement of the Flight Dynamics System software to accommodate new mission requirements and constellation changes.

Perform collision risk assessments and conjunction analysis using current SSA tools to ensure satellite safety and operational continuity.

Coordinate with tracking stations and external partners to validate orbital data and refine prediction models.

Create detailed reports on orbital status, maneuver results, and anomaly investigations for internal stakeholders and management.

Implement automation and process improvements within the flight dynamics workflow to increase efficiency and reduce manual errors.

Monitor satellite health and link performance to correlate with orbital behavior and environmental conditions.

Assist in the testing and validation of new flight dynamics algorithms and software features in a controlled operational setting.

Document all operational activities, decisions, and findings to maintain a clear audit trail and support knowledge transfer.

Contribute to on-call operational support as needed to address real-time events and maintain continuous satellite operations.

Collaborate with systems engineers to translate high-level mission objectives into actionable flight dynamics tasks and timelines.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members to elevate the overall capability of the flight dynamics group.

Requirements

Must possess a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a closely related technical field.

Demonstrate a strong understanding of orbital mechanics, space tracking, and satellite operations principles.

Have experience with flight dynamics software tools and ground system architecture relevant to satellite missions.

Show proficiency in at least one scripting or programming language such as Python, MATLAB, or similar for data analysis and automation.

Possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets and draw actionable conclusions.

Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Be capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Hold Canadian citizenship or permanent residency to meet security clearance requirements for this position.

Be willing to relocate to Ottawa, Ontario, or the surrounding region to fulfill the role responsibilities.

Nice to have

Previous experience with LEO satellite constellations or mission operations environments.

Familiarity with Space Situational Awareness (SSA) tools and conjunction assessment processes.

Knowledge of flight dynamics software development or configuration practices.

Experience supporting real-time satellite operations and on-call availability.

Understanding of regulatory and compliance frameworks relevant to satellite operations.

Practical notes

This role may require occasional travel to support mission operations or engineering reviews as determined by business needs.

Candidates must be eligible to obtain necessary security clearances and comply with Canadian government security requirements.

Relocation support may be available for qualified candidates moving to the Ottawa area.