GNC Engineer / GNC Engineeress

Lead / Senior GNC Engineer

A spacecraft navigates, maneuvers, and maintains its vital functions thanks to expert guidance in Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC). Our client, a leader in the development of advanced national security satellites, is in search of a Lead GNC Engineer to oversee the subsystem from algorithm development and sensor selection to integration, testing, and on-orbit support. This position is ideal for an individual who not only possesses deep technical expertise but also the confidence to lead a team and drive a complex program to successful delivery.

The Role

As the Responsible Engineering Authority for GNC on a program or constellation, you will manage hardware, software, and analysis delivery throughout the entire lifecycle. Your responsibilities include:

• 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, including effective decomposition and delegation of work
• Collaborating across 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 conduct complex GNC system analyses including kinematics, dynamics, and control systems using existing or self-developed tools
• Proven capability to lead a small team of engineers while collaborating across subsystems and program leadership
• Skill in breaking down 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
• Experience in satellite integration and testing, including independent root cause analysis during I&T
• On-orbit operations experience with the ability to support off-nominal activities outside standard hours
• Strong project management fundamentals, including cost and schedule performance monitoring
• Advanced understanding of classical and modern control theory, trade studies, and systems integration
• Active TS/SCI clearance

Apply online using the form below. Note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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

Adam Slade