Senior GNC Engineer

$160,000 - $230,000

El Segundo, California

Full-time: On Site

Our client is an innovative start-up who specialise in developing advanced defense technologies. It focuses on next-generation long-range strike weapons systems, employing a unique approach that emphasizes rapid prototyping, iterative design cycles, and efficient, scalable production methods inspired by commercial manufacturing practices. Their mission is to provide cutting-edge solutions that give their clients and allies a strategic advantage, contributing to global security and conflict deterrence.

The role:

As a Senior GNC Engineer, you will be at the forefront of developing and refining the control systems that guide and control our advanced missile systems. You will be responsible for controlled flight of development vehicles, focusing on aerodynamically efficient flight paths. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology, creating advanced flight control algorithms while validating simulation models through real-world testing. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver accurate flight predictions, drive hardware specification, and conduct successful flight tests

Responsibilities

6 DOF Simulations: Develop, maintain, and run multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) simulations for multi-stage vehicle flights. Implement these simulations in Software-in-the-Loop (SITL) environments and transition them to Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) systems for validation. Establish a comprehensive workflow to validate each controller release.

Aerodynamic Analysis: Generate, test, and calibrate aerodynamic response data. Utilize tools like CFD and Missile DATCOM to conduct analysis and validate performance through analytical and experimental methods.

Electromechanical Actuator Development: Develop and characterize actuator simulation models, define bottom-up performance requirements, and quantify how sensor and mechanism errors impact overall system performance.

Key Deliverables

Single-Stage Vehicle Control: Achieve roll-stabilized, pitch-controlled flight paths for single-stage vehicles, validating aerodynamic models and simulations through real-world data.

Multi-Stage Vehicle Control: Expand control systems for multi-stage vehicles, ensuring stability across all flight phases.

Simulation and Testing: Build simulations to inform design decisions, establish requirements for navigation and control systems, and evaluate their performance.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.

At least 5 years of experience in GNC engineering or equivalent roles in aerospace, defense, or missile systems.

Expertise in developing 6 DOF simulations and flight models for missile systems.

Experience with aerodynamic analysis tools like CFD or Missile DATCOM.

Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C++.

Preferred Skills

Hands-on experience with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) systems.

Knowledge of Kalman filters and advanced control techniques.

In-depth understanding of aerodynamics and control theory.

Experience with electromechanical actuators and their characterization.