Orbital Software Engineer – SSA/SST Focus

Permanent employee, Full-time · Brunswick/Hybrid (Germany)

Your mission

Join us in building solutions that keep space safe and sustainable. As part of our team, you’ll work on varied projects and products across Space Flight Dynamics (FD), Space Situational Awareness (SSA), Space Traffic Management (STM), and Space Surveillance & Tracking (SST).

Your role will evolve over time: sometimes you’ll design and code algorithms, other times you’ll help integrate data sources, support product development, or contribute to institutional projects (e.g., ESA collaborations). If you enjoy learning new things, adapting to different challenges, and working in a fast-paced environment, this is for you.

Your tasks and responsibilities

Your tasks will change over time depending on project needs, but may include:

Algorithm Development: Design and implement algorithms for orbit propagation, orbit determination, sensor fusion, and collision risk assessment, among other topics.
Software Engineering: Build operational, production-ready software in modern languages (similar to Python, Java, C++, Fortran) using best practices (CI/CD, testing, maintainability).
Product Development: Contribute to features for SSA/STM platforms, from concept to deployment, ensuring scalability and reliability.
Validation & Verification: Run V&V campaigns with real-world datasets to benchmark and improve system performance.
Institutional & Strategic Projects: Support projects for space agencies (e.g., ESA, DLR) or industry partners, including technical documentation, compliance with standards, and reporting.
Cross-Team Collaboration: Work with aerospace engineers, software developers, and business teams to deliver solutions that meet operational needs.

Your profile

Must-have:

M.Sc. or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Space Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Computer Science, or a closely related field, or equivalent professional experience in SSA/SST or Space Flight Dynamics.
Minimum of 2 years of relevant industry experience, involving software development or scientific programming.
Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of astrodynamics, orbital mechanics, and flight dynamics.
Ability to write robust, maintainable code in a compiled or high-level language (e.g., Python, Java, C++, Fortran, or similar).
Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative, and research-driven environment.
This position is only open to candidates currently based in Germany or willing to relocate.
Valid working permit for Germany/EU.

Nice-to-have:

Hands-on experience with space surveillance and tracking (SST) systems, including sensor tasking and catalog maintenance.
Experience working with space agencies or private space companies in the SSA/SST field.
Familiarity with space surveillance and tracking systems.
Understanding of space policy and compliance frameworks.
Interest in contributing to the sustainability of space and long-term spaceflight operations.

Why us?

With a lean hierarchy and small working groups, you define your own way of work including flexible work hours.
Work on groundbreaking space sustainability challenges with a team of top-tier engineers and scientists.
Enjoy technical freedom. Influence system architecture, research methodologies, and data integration approaches.
Grow continuously with access to training budgets, industry conferences, and networking opportunities.
Be part of a strong engineering culture, with regular knowledge-sharing sessions, technical deep dives, and innovation sprints.
Great team spirit, with company-wide events such as monthly all-hands lunches, and social activities like laser tag, dinners, and team-building outings.

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About us

OKAPI:Orbits is at the forefront of space sustainability, addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the space industry: the growing problem of crowded orbital regimes, and the need for more efficient satellite operations. We're providing end-to-end solutions that help various space industry players cover their Space Situation Awareness (SSA), and Space Traffic Management and Coordination (STM & STC) needs. We are committed to safeguarding space missions and access to space for all humanity. Join us on our mission.

Last but not least, we would like to share with you that research shows that women are less likely to apply for a position unless they meet 100% of the listed requirements.
Please know that if it’s your case — but you are passionate about space technology, building reliable software, and contributing to a more sustainable space environment — we strongly encourage you to apply.
OKAPI:Orbits already brings together a highly diverse team, and we actively continue to strengthen this diversity which allows us to achieve higher performance and drive innovation.

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Your application!

We appreciate your interest in OKAPI:Orbits GmbH. Please fill in the following short form. Should you have any difficulties in uploading your files, please contact us by mail at career@okapiorbits.com.