Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early) Seen this week

About the Role

You will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position, attitude, knowledge and stability requirements of our satellite bus. Working on a closely integrated team, you will approach this from a clean sheet design and inform coupled trades across the vehicle architecture. You report directly to the Director of Spacecraft.

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement GNC algorithms for satellite systems, including attitude determination and control, orbit determination and control, and precision pointing.
• Conduct analysis of spacecraft dynamics and perform simulations to evaluate system performance, stability, and accuracy.
• Design, develop, and test spacecraft control systems, including reaction wheels, thrusters, and magnetic torquers, to achieve desired mission objectives.
• Collaborate with spacecraft and payload engineers to define system requirements and ensure GNC system compatibility and integration.
• Perform trade studies and make recommendations for optimal GNC configurations, considering factors such as power consumption, mass, and cost.
• Develop and execute test plans and procedures for GNC systems, including system-level testing, performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.
• Analyze and interpret spacecraft telemetry data to diagnose and troubleshoot GNC-related anomalies and performance issues.
• Collaborate with software engineers to develop GNC software modules and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with overall satellite systems.
• Develop GNC algorithm and subsystem tests and validation criteria for functional and performance verification.
• Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, system engineers, and operations personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 1+ years of professional experience as a GNC Engineer, preferably in the satellite or aerospace industry.
• Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.
• Experience in programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, Python with experience in numerical simulation and analysis.
• Familiarity with GNC hardware and software components, such as sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, star trackers), actuators, and control algorithms.
• Experience with simulation tools and software packages commonly used in spacecraft GNC engineering (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK).
• Knowledge of industry standards and protocols for satellite GNC systems, such as CCSDS, ECSS, and GPS/GNSS.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex system dynamics and propose effective solutions.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

What We Offer

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• 15 days vacation annually, growing to 20+ days, plus 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
• Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
• Premium desk setup and tools
• Playa Vista office with flexibility for in-person collaboration