About the RoleSierra Space is seeking a Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer II to contribute to the design, analysis, and implementation of advanced GNC systems for spacecraft applications. This mid-level role is ideal for engineers with foundational experience in dynamic modeling, algorithm design, and simulation analysis. The selected candidate will work independently on complex tasks while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure system performance and compliance with requirements. This position offers the opportunity to expand technical expertise and take ownership of key GNC subsystems.
In this role, you will develop, implement, and evaluate GNC algorithms, focusing on one or more areas of guidance, navigation, control, and Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR). You will program and optimize simulations using SIMULINK and STK, while modeling and analyzing GNC sensors and actuators such as IMUs, GPS, star trackers, Reaction Control Systems (RCS), Reaction Wheels, Magnetic Torquer Bars, Control Moment Gyros, and LIDAR. Additionally, you will run and modify Monte Carlo simulations, performing in-depth analysis to identify issues and optimize system performance. You will analyze and implement autonomous GNC mode transitions to ensure system reliability and robustness, take ownership of a group of performance requirements by conducting relevant analysis to ensure compliance, and work with GNC flight software (FSW) in target test simulation environments to validate functionality. Furthermore, you will document technical findings and communicate results to stakeholders and team members.
About YouOur mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.
We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
2+ years of relevant experience in dynamic modeling and GNC algorithm design.
Strong proficiency in SIMULINK programming and STK, with familiarity in C, C++, Python, and version control tools such as GIT/SVN.
Fundamental knowledge of GNC algorithms and experience with designing at least one of guidance, navigation, control, or FDIR algorithms.
Understanding of the working principles of IMUs, GPS, star trackers, RCS, non-propulsive actuators (Reaction Wheels, Magnetic Torquer Bars, Control Moment Gyros), and LIDAR.
The ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required.
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong fundamental knowledge of dynamic modeling, control, guidance, or navigation algorithm design, state-space systems, SISO, and MIMO systems.
Ability to estimate workload independently and accurately on short-term tasks, including JIRA tickets.
Experience running Monte Carlo simulations and performing in-depth analysis to troubleshoot and optimize GNC systems.
Strong understanding of autonomous GNC mode transitions and ability to perform relevant analysis.
Familiarity with SIMULINK autocoding and Linux systems for simulation and software integration.
Ability to take ownership of performance requirements and conduct detailed analysis to ensure compliance.
Experience working with GNC flight software in target test simulation environments and conducting validation testing.
Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, including power and thermal systems, communication antennas, and control structure interaction principles.
Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Compensation:
Pay Range:
$105,534.00 - $145,109.25
Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.
