Flight Dynamics Analyst (ADV)

MDA Space (TSX: MDA) is a trusted mission partner in the global space industry that creates the space between what is proven and what is possible. As a pioneer in robotics, satellite systems, and geospatial intelligence, with a history of 55 years of world-firsts and over 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in the fields of communication satellites, Earth observation and space, as well as space infrastructure and exploration. The MDA Space team, which counts more than 4,000 space experts in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, possesses the knowledge and expertise needed to transform a client's bold vision into a feasible mission, thanks to a unique combination of experience, technical excellence, and wonder that has been part of our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push the limits on Earth and in the stars to change the world for the better, we will take you there.

MDA Geospatial Services is recruiting a Flight Dynamics Analyst (ADV) for its Satellite Operations team, which supports several space missions led by the Canadian Space Agency in Saint-Hubert, Quebec. The Satellite Operations team is responsible for all activities related to flight operations, including maintaining position, monitoring, and preserving the integrity and safety of satellites, as well as improving the reliability and efficiency of the ground system.

During the first year with the team, the candidate will familiarize themselves with the relevant functional areas related to flight operations before moving to an on-call position. The main functional area of this role is flight dynamics, including orbit determination and maneuvers. Once trained, the ADV will be on the front lines in case of system anomalies and will be responsible for leading investigations and recovery operations, as well as coordinating conjunction analyses and avoidance activities. The ADV will implement ground system modifications related to the satellite's orbit and flight dynamics, taking into account the interdependencies between systems, to improve or maintain performance. The ADV must have a good understanding of the satellite's subsystems, including the attitude control system and propulsion systems. The ADV will also possess in-depth knowledge and understanding of the ground systems, including those used to task the satellite, as well as the processing and analysis tools used to monitor the satellite's telemetry. A good understanding of operational constraints and procedures is essential. The ADV may be required to examine, conduct tests, and develop operational procedures, as well as write reports.

The candidate must possess excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills, as well as a keen sense of managing real-time operations. They must be able to work autonomously, with initiative, and with minimal supervision, and be able to effectively report to management.

A team spirit and a positive attitude are essential to establish productive working relationships in a satellite operations environment.

This position is based at the MDA Control Center, at the Canadian Space Agency headquarters in Saint-Hubert, Quebec.

Main Responsibilities

• Monitor and report on system performance, including orbit control, against defined metrics, through the analysis of satellite telemetry and other data sources
• Operate an orbit determination and control system and report on performance and the quality of results
• Conduct conjunction analyses and formulate recommendations regarding collision avoidance maneuvers, as needed
• Plan and implement orbital maneuvers as required
• Resolve system anomalies (satellite or ground) with the help of a support team on call, according to a rotation system, when non-nominal operations are detected
• Lead development projects for system software and operational improvements
• Follow well-defined procedures and ensure the application of well-defined processes
• Maintain flight operations systems, operational procedures, and other operational tools

Requirements

• University or advanced degree in a mathematical or scientific discipline, preferably in the fields of electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or mechanical engineering, or physics. Second or third cycle degrees in other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields will also be considered
• Practical experience in orbit determination
• Good understanding of orbital mechanics
• Good understanding of satellite platform subsystems (ADCS, power, thermal, etc.) or radar payload systems
• Proven leadership experience
• Team spirit and flexibility, with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment
• Sense of organization and ability to manage priorities autonomously
• A keen interest and passion for innovation
• Good oral and written communication skills; the working language is English (Service relating to the Ontario headquarters).
• The willingness to participate in an "on-call" rotation schedule to support the decision-making and anomaly resolution process outside of regular working hours
• The ability to perform software maintenance to support system improvement throughout its lifecycle
• The work must be performed on-site at the Canadian Space Agency in Saint-Hubert, five days a week.
• The candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a "Secret" level security clearance in Canada

Assets

• Experience with analysis tools such as STK/ODTK, Orekit, MATLAB
• Experience with programming languages such as Java and C/C++, as well as JavaScript, Python, or Perl
• Experience with databases
• Comments/ Special Considerations:

Selected candidates must obtain and maintain a Secret Canada security clearance and pass the security evaluation for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP).

We are a dream team of passionate, collaborative, and determined people, and we are constantly looking for others to join the #MDAteam to bring new and innovative problem-solving approaches that push us to improve life on and above the Earth. If you are enthusiastic about expanding our place in space and inspiring the next generation, we will take you there.

We have entered a new era of exploration and development, and MDA invites all those who wish to join and be part of it. As an equal opportunity employer that values diversity, integrity, and collaboration, we are committed to strengthening MDA's and Canada's leadership in this new chapter.

MDA offers competitive pay and benefits to its employees across all its locations. As a member of the MDA team, you and your eligible dependents can enroll in a benefits program that provides comprehensive protection through competitive healthcare, including: supplementary healthcare and flexible drug benefit plans, dental and vision care benefits, income protection in case of disability, life insurance, collective retirement savings plans, and an employee and family assistance program.

MDA Ltd. is proud to offer accommodation measures during the recruitment process. If you wish to avail yourself of such measures, please indicate this in your cover letter or accompanying letter, and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.