GNC Engineer (Starlink)
Job description
About the role
Become a vital member of the guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team for Starlink, where you will be instrumental in developing advanced autopilot algorithms for a global network of satellites and user terminals. This position focuses on crafting the software that enables high-speed internet access worldwide. Your contributions will play a significant role in the design and functionality of the largest satellite constellation ever created.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Develop and optimize high-performance GNC algorithms, simulations, and tools utilizing C++ or Python for production-level systems.
- Engage in architectural discussions, participate in design reviews, and conduct code assessments to ensure high-quality software delivery.
- Analyze extensive datasets to evaluate the performance metrics of the Starlink satellite constellation and its network.
- Create comprehensive technical documentation detailing algorithms, software programs, and analytical results to facilitate knowledge sharing.
- Participate in on-call rotations to oversee satellite operations and monitor network data, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate GNC solutions into the broader Starlink ecosystem.
- Troubleshoot and resolve software issues that arise during the development and operational phases.
- Stay updated with the latest advancements in GNC technology and best practices to enhance the team's capabilities.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, physics, or a related engineering discipline is required.
- Proven experience in software development, particularly using C++ or Python.
- Flexibility to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to meet project deadlines.
- Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or possess eligibility for necessary U.S. Department of State authorizations due to ITAR regulations.
Nice to have
- A Master's degree or PhD in an engineering field or physics is preferred.
- Experience in developing, debugging, and implementing software for practical applications is advantageous.
- Strong analytical skills, problem-solving capabilities, and a solid foundation in engineering principles.
- Familiarity with the complete development cycle of three-axis stabilized spacecraft utilizing momentum, magnetic, and propulsive control methods.
- In-depth knowledge of orbital mechanics, particularly in low thrust trajectory optimization and station-keeping techniques.
- Experience in validating GNC algorithm performance through simulation and model validation processes.
- Background in state estimation techniques, including attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation.
- Understanding of numerical probability of collision methodologies such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall is beneficial.
- General awareness of spacecraft flight disciplines including structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch, mission operations, and integration; hands-on experience in these areas is highly regarded.
- Ability to independently identify, analyze, and resolve complex technical challenges.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to articulate technical concepts effectively.
Skills & tools
- Proficiency in C++
- Proficiency in Python
- Understanding of orbital mechanics
- Knowledge of control theory
- Expertise in state estimation
- Familiarity with spacecraft systems design
- Skills in optimization techniques
Practical notes
SpaceX provides a benefits package that includes long-term incentives such as stock options, cash awards, and discretionary bonuses. Employees can also participate in an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Additional benefits encompass comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various employee discounts. Team members earn three weeks of paid vacation annually and enjoy over ten paid holidays each year. Employees in Washington State also accumulate paid sick leave. Convenient company shuttles are available for roundtrip travel from select locations in Seattle to the Redmond office, operating Monday through Friday.
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.