Mission Design Tools Software Engineer
The Mission Design Tools Software Engineer develops advanced simulations and tools for NASA and commercial spaceflight missions, utilizing C++, Fortran, and Python. The role encompasses full software lifecycle responsibilities, including continuous integration and deployment, while ensuring compliance with NASA's Class C software standards per NPR 7150.2. This position is based in Houston, TX and requires on-site work with no remote option.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Technology, Information and Internet.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Mission Design Tools Software Engineer to design, build, and maintain mission-design and simulation tools used for NASA and commercial spaceflight applications. This role focuses on simulation frameworks with variable degrees of freedom, scientific and engineering code in C++ and Fortran, Python tooling, and full software lifecycle practices including CI/CD. The position is based in Houston, TX (onsite).
What You’ll Do
- Design and implement variable-degree-of-freedom simulation models for mission analysis and vehicle dynamics.
- Write, refactor, and maintain high-performance scientific code in C++, Fortran, and Python.
- Integrate models and tools into CI/CD pipelines; automate builds, tests, and code quality checks.
- Collaborate with systems engineers, mission architects, and test teams to define requirements and validate results.
- Participate in full software lifecycle activities: requirements, design, implementation, verification, and maintenance.
- Ensure development practices support applicable NASA and aerospace processes (e.g., Class C per NPR 7150.2) where required.
- Produce technical documentation, unit/integration test suites, and reproducible simulation workflows.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent experience).
- Strong experience developing scientific or engineering software using C++.
- Practical experience with Fortran codebases (maintenance, interfacing, or development).
- Proficiency in Python for scripting, automation, data analysis, or test harnesses.
- Familiarity with CI/CD tooling (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI) and automated testing frameworks.
- Strong debugging skills and experience profiling numerical and simulation code.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing mission design, trajectory, or vehicle dynamics simulation software.
- Prior exposure to NASA standards and processes (NPR 7150.2 or similar).
- Knowledge of numerical methods used in mission analysis (integration, propagation, control).
- Familiarity with version control best practices (Git workflows), code review processes, and continuous integration for scientific software.
- Graduate degree in a relevant field or equivalent relevant industry experience.
Why Join
- Work on challenging spaceflight mission-design tooling used by NASA and commercial partners.
- Opportunity to shape and improve engineering workflows, CI/CD, and the quality of mission simulations.
- Collaborative, multidisciplinary teams focused on reliable engineering outcomes.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range