Flight Dynamics Team Lead

Location: Oxfordshire

We are seeking an experienced Flight Dynamics Team Lead to join a growing Algorithms and Software group working on complex, safety-critical space missions. This is a senior technical and people-leadership role, responsible for leading a team of Flight Dynamics engineers delivering the full flight dynamics software capability across mission design, validation, and on-orbit operations.

You’ll play a key role across the entire mission lifecycle, from early trajectory and mission design through to operational support, while providing technical leadership, mentorship, and line management to a highly skilled engineering team.

You will lead the design, development, implementation, and validation of flight dynamics software and tools supporting advanced spacecraft operations, including rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO). Working closely with GNC, systems, software, ground segment, and operations teams, you’ll ensure robust, mission-ready solutions are delivered on time and to the highest technical standards.

Key responsibilities
Flight Dynamics & Technical Leadership

Lead the design, development, validation, and maintenance of flight dynamics systems and software
Design and optimise spacecraft trajectories to meet mission requirements
Oversee the development and implementation of flight dynamics algorithms for operational missions
Review and approve flight dynamics designs, procedures, and technical documentation
Capture and manage requirements, translating them into use cases and user stories
Support spacecraft operations teams by resolving technical issues and advising on best practice
Act as technical authority / product owner when interfacing with external suppliers
Produce and maintain high-quality project documentation (requirements, V&V plans, test procedures, reports)
Team Leadership & Management

Provide line management, including workload prioritisation, performance reviews, and development planning
Plan and allocate technical work in line with project milestones and team capability
Take overall accountability for the team’s technical output
Support internal and external technical reviews and programme gates
Identify resourcing or skills gaps and work with leadership to address them
Support recruitment through CV review and interviewing
Provide technical direction, mentorship, and career development for team members
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team cultureCollaboration

Work closely with GNC, systems, software, ground segment, and project management teams
Collaborate with flight dynamics teams across multiple international locations to ensure alignment and knowledge sharing
Essential skills & experience

Master’s degree in Astronautics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
5+ years’ experience in spacecraft flight dynamics
3+ years’ experience leading and managing engineering teams
Strong knowledge of orbital mechanics, estimation theory, and optimisation techniques

Experience with mission design, orbit determination, manoeuvre planning, and operational support
Hands-on experience with flight dynamics tools (e.g. STK, GMAT, Free Flyer)
Strong scripting/analysis skills (Python, MATLAB)
Experience across the software development lifecycle
Familiarity with version control systems (e.g. Git)
Excellent communication skills and ability to present complex technical topics clearly
Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
Desirable experience

Knowledge of ECSS standards

Experience with advanced flight dynamics (RPO, formation flying, low-thrust optimisation)
Background in commercial flight dynamics systems
Broader software engineering experience
Ability to gain or hold UK security clearance
What’s on offer

Flexible working and hybrid options
Optional 9/75 working pattern
25 days’ holiday (increasing to 28) plus bank holidays
Private healthcare, life insurance, and long-term sick pay
Relocation support and visa sponsorship (where applicable)
State-of-the-art office and technical facilities

TT