GNC Engineer III, Controls

Role Overview

• Design, analyze, and tune launch vehicle attitude control software to ensure stable flight from launch to orbit
• Implement control techniques for mission-critical flight phases using thrust vector control actuators, reaction control thrusters, and aerodynamic surfaces
• Develop control systems accounting for complex launch vehicle dynamics including aerodynamic effects, structural flex modes, propellant slosh, and control structure interaction
• Establish technical standards and validation methodologies for control system design, software development, and hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Conduct stability analysis, sensitivity studies, and performance optimization for control systems under nominal and off-nominal flight conditions
• Support hardware-in-the-loop test campaigns for integrated GNC systems including control algorithm validation, flight software verification, and system-level performance testing
• Drive resolution of complex GNC challenges requiring deep technical expertise and rapid problem-solving
• Provide technical direction on system architecture and serve as subject matter expert for launch vehicle control
• Mentor junior engineers in control theory and flight software development
• Author technical documentation and analysis reports that communicate GNC concepts and results to diverse audiences
• Interface with cross-discipline teams to integrate control software with vehicle hardware
• Serve as a GNC console operator for launch operations and perform post-flight analysis to improve vehicle models
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives for GNC processes, tools, and operational efficiency

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or related field
• 5-10 years of experience in launch vehicle GNC systems with significant depth in attitude control system design or flight software development
• Advanced knowledge of attitude dynamics and control theory, including rotational dynamics, attitude representations, control moment generation, and stability analysis
• Strong understanding of classical control theory and frequency domain analysis techniques
• Expertise in real-time software development using C++ for flight-critical applications
• Experience developing high-fidelity actuator models and attitude control system testbeds
• Proficiency in hardware-in-the-loop testing and requirement verification for flight-critical systems
• Understanding of software development best practices including version control (Git), code documentation, and testing
• Excellent communication and presentation skills

Benefits

• generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles
• parental leave
• educational reimbursement
• short term disability
• flexible PTO options