Computational Physicist/Scientist | Secret Clearance Required

Trace3 • Colorado Springs, CO

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Trace3 is a leading Transformative IT Authority, providing unique technology solutions and consulting services to our clients. Equipped with elite engineering and dynamic innovation, we empower IT executives and their organizations to achieve competitive advantage through a process of Integrate, Automate, Innovate.
Our culture at Trace3 embodies the spirit of a startup with the advantage of a scalable business. Employees can grow their career and have fun while doing it!
Trace3 is headquartered in Irvine, California. We employ more than 1,200 people all over the United States. Our major field office locations include Denver, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Lexington, Los Angeles, Louisville, Texas, San Francisco.
Ready to discover the possibilities that live in technology?
Come Join Us!
Street-Smart - Thriving in Dynamic Times
We are flexible and resilient in a fast-changing environment. We continuously innovate and drive constructive change while keeping a focus on the “big picture.” We exercise sound business judgment in making high-quality decisions in a timely and cost-effective manner. We are highly creative and can dig deep within ourselves to find positive solutions to different problems.
Juice - The “Stuff” it takes to be a Needle Mover
We get things done and drive results. We lead without a title, empowering others through a can-do attitude. We look forward to the goal, mentally mapping out every checkpoint on the pathway to success, and visualizing what the final destination looks and feels like.
Teamwork - Humble, Hungry and Smart
We are humble individuals who understand how our job impacts the company's mission. We treat others with respect, admit mistakes, give credit where it’s due and demonstrate transparency. We “bring the weather” by exhibiting positive leadership and solution-focused thinking. We hug people in their trials, struggles, and failures – not just their success. We appreciate the individuality of the people around us.
This position is fully on-site in Colorado Springs, CO | Active Secret Clearance (min) Required
JOB SUMMARY:
The Computational Physicist/ Scientist supports North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) on the Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment (ITW/AA) and Space Support Contract II (NISSC II). This role applies advanced physics-based computational techniques to problems such as orbital mechanics, space domain awareness, sensor modeling, and threat analysis.
Working within a highly collaborative and secure environment, the Computational Physicist develops and executes simulations that inform mission planning, system performance, and operational decision-making for U.S. Space Force and associated defense partners.

Requirements

• 3 years of direct engineering experience, including hands-on involvement in R&D or complex engineering projects
• Strong understanding of classical mechanics, orbital mechanics, and applied mathematics
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB for algorithm development, modeling, and analysis
• Familiarity with numerical methods and simulation techniques
• Demonstrate experience applying analytical skills to solve complex technical problems in areas such as data analysis, state estimation, or trajectory analysis
• Ability to analyze large datasets and communicate technical results effectively
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Active Secret Security clearance required – Top Secret is preferred
• Master’s degree in a relevant STEM field (Astrodynamics, Mathematics, Physics, or Computational Engineering).

Nice To Haves

• Experience applying fundamental Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) algorithms for data analysis, pattern recognition, or predictive modeling.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced principles of mathematics, statistics, and physics to solve complex aerospace and defense problems in support of the nation's Missile Warning (MW) and Integrated Tactical Warning/Attack Assessment (ITW/AA) mission.
• Serve as a technical resource for the government’s Chief Scientist Office (CSO), where you will investigate complex analytical problems, assist in defining scope, and execute the development of advanced algorithms and simulation models.
• Work with senior staff, you will help recommend changes in technical approach and develop new methods warranted by advancements in state-of-the-art technology
• Develop and implement computational models related to space systems, orbital dynamics, and physical interactions in the space domain.
• Perform simulations to support mission analysis, including satellite trajectories, conjunction analysis, and space environment effects.
• Apply numerical methods and physics-based modeling techniques to solve complex aerospace and defense problems.
• Write, test, and optimize scientific and analytical code using Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar tools.
• Utilize high-performance computing (HPC) resources to run large-scale simulations and improve computational efficiency.
• Analyze simulation outputs and translate results into actionable insights for mission and engineering teams.
• Support development of algorithms for tracking, detection, and characterization of space objects.
• Ensure compliance with DoD security requirements and classified program protocols.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for you and your dependents
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match, 529 College Savings Plan, Health Savings Account, Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability
• Competitive Compensation
• Training and development programs
• Major offices stocked with snacks and beverages
• Collaborative and cool culture
• Work-life balance and generous paid time off

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level