GNC Engineer / GNC Engineeress

Lead / Senior GNC Engineer

A spacecraft points, maneuvers, and stays operational because of the expertise in Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC). Our client develops some of the most advanced national security satellites currently in operation, and they are in search of a Lead GNC Engineer who can take ownership of the subsystem end-to-end—from algorithm development and sensor selection to integration, testing, and on-orbit support. This position is designed for someone who possesses deep technical knowledge coupled with the confidence to lead a team and drive complex programs to successful delivery.

The Role

As the Responsible Engineering Authority for GNC on a program or constellation, you will oversee hardware, software, and analysis delivery throughout the entire lifecycle. This involves:

• Performing subsystem design and analysis
• Leading flight control software development and validation
• Selecting sensors and actuators
• Managing GNC work within program cost and schedule constraints
• Leading a team of GNC engineers, decomposing and delegating work effectively
• Interfacing with other subsystems and program management
• Providing on-console support during on-orbit operations
• Reporting technical progress and tracking risks to leadership

What You'll Need

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline with 5 or more years of industry experience
• Strong GNC fundamentals and spacecraft system-level knowledge
• Ability to perform complex GNC system analyses covering kinematics, dynamics, and control systems using existing or self-developed tools
• Proven ability to lead a small team of engineers and collaborate across subsystems and program leadership
• Capability to decompose large and complex tasks into clearly defined work packages for personal execution or delegation
• US Person status required; Top Secret clearance required post start

What Sets Candidates Apart

• 10 or more years of spacecraft GNC system design experience
• Satellite integration and test experience, including independent root cause analysis during Integration & Testing (I&T)
• Experience with on-orbit operations and the ability to support off-nominal activities outside standard hours
• Strong project management skills, including cost and schedule performance monitoring
• Advanced understanding of classical and modern control theory, trade studies, and systems integration
• Active TS/SCI clearance

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade