GNC Software Engineer

About the role

In this position, you will be responsible for developing advanced simulations, flight algorithms, and mission planning tools that are crucial for executing complex space missions. Your work will involve creating system-of-systems software that accurately models the interactions among satellites, ground infrastructure, and various environmental factors, ensuring that all components work seamlessly together.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and implement software tools that assess the performance of various architectures, including sensors, communications systems, and satellites.
• Develop six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) dynamics simulation models to validate guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems.
• Create physics-based models that accurately represent radio frequency (RF) communications and sensor systems.
• Assess the feasibility of designs to help define the overall system architecture effectively.
• Maintain an extensive library of models for both ground and space systems to be utilized in simulation environments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure that mission objectives are successfully achieved.
• Prepare and present technical analyses and findings to both internal stakeholders and external clients, ensuring clarity and understanding.
• Engage in troubleshooting and debugging of software tools to enhance performance and reliability.
• Participate in the continuous improvement of simulation methodologies and software development processes.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in GNC technologies and methodologies to incorporate innovative solutions into your work.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns, sharing your expertise and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Contribute to the documentation of software tools and processes for future reference and compliance purposes.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in physics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Proven experience in software development using C or C++.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee to comply with ITAR regulations.
• Capability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance is essential.
• Flexibility to work weekends and extended hours as necessary to meet project deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on detail-oriented work.

Nice to have

• An active Top Secret, TS/SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance is highly desirable.
• At least one year of professional experience in modeling and simulation is preferred.
• Familiarity with C++14 or later standards in a professional setting.
• A master's degree or PhD in engineering or physics would be an advantage.
• Experience in developing state estimation algorithms is a plus.
• Knowledge of RF communication systems and their applications in aerospace.
• Background in test automation, performance optimization, and debugging techniques.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C and C++ (C++14 or newer).
• Expertise in six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) dynamics and state estimation methodologies.
• Familiarity with RF communications principles and simulation modeling techniques.

Practical notes

• Compensation for this role varies based on experience and level: Level I offers an annual salary ranging from $125,000 to $150,000, while Level II ranges from $145,000 to $175,000.
• Employees with active security clearances may receive a 10% salary differential, which can add up to an additional $20,000 per year upon being briefed into a classified program.
• The total rewards package includes stock options, long-term incentives, a 401(k) plan, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid parental leave, and three weeks of vacation in addition to over ten holidays.
• Obtaining and maintaining a security clearance is a condition of employment; failure to do so may lead to termination.
• Positions that involve classified missions require pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing to ensure compliance with safety and security protocols.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.