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SAIC

GNC Aerospace Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

Participate in technical reviews, design sessions, and engineering working groups with government and contractor personnel Qualifications Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering ...

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How much do aerospace contractor jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace contractor in the United States is $119,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Contractor, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, project management, and compliance with industry regulations, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and security clearance. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and standards such as AS9100 or ITAR compliance is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, meeting strict technical requirements, and successfully delivering complex aerospace projects on time.

What are some common challenges faced by Aerospace Contractors when working on multi-disciplinary projects?

Aerospace Contractors often face the challenge of coordinating with diverse teams, including engineers, designers, and manufacturing specialists, to ensure that all components of a project align with stringent safety and quality standards. Managing tight deadlines, adapting to changing client requirements, and ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies like the FAA or EASA can add complexity to daily tasks. Strong communication and project management skills are essential for overcoming these hurdles and delivering successful outcomes in a collaborative environment.

What are aerospace contractors?

Aerospace contractors are companies or individuals that provide specialized products or services to government agencies or private organizations within the aerospace industry. They may design, manufacture, test, or maintain aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, or related systems and components. Aerospace contractors often work on projects for organizations like NASA, the Department of Defense, or commercial airlines, contributing expertise in engineering, technology, and project management. Their work is essential for advancing aerospace technology and supporting national and commercial aerospace operations.

What is the difference between Aerospace Contractor vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerospace ContractorAerospace Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering; certifications varyRequires a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; often a master's or higher for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentContract-based projects, often on-site at aerospace facilities or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, and testing in labs or offices, with some on-site testing
Employer & Industry UsageContracting firms, aerospace manufacturers, government agenciesAirlines, aerospace companies, government agencies, research institutions

While both roles involve aerospace work, an Aerospace Contractor primarily provides specialized services or project-based work for aerospace companies, often on a contractual basis. An Aerospace Engineer designs, develops, and tests aerospace systems and components, typically working directly within engineering teams. The roles overlap in credentials and industry but differ in employment type and daily responsibilities.

More about Aerospace Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Contractor job openings:
What states have the most Aerospace Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Contractor jobs are:
Aerospace Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Contractor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 52% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 46% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,000 per year, or $57.2 per hour.

GNC Engineer (Aerospace Engineer)

JRC Careers

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Who We Are (video)
At JRC, we tackle some of the toughest challenges faced by the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. Our expertise in engineering innovation and semiconductor technologies allows us to deliver mission-critical microelectronics solutions, aerospace systems engineering, and cutting-edge research and development. By joining JRC, you'll be part of a team that supports strategic deterrence and defense missions, playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the United States and its allies.
Join JRC's Strategic Defense & International Operations (SDIO) Team!
We are seeking a GNC Engineer (Aerospace Engineer) to develop and refine guidance, navigation, and control algorithms supporting advanced weapon system modeling, simulation, and flight performance analysis. This role involves trajectory analysis, sensor integration, 6 DOF simulation, telemetry evaluation, and control system development using MATLAB/Simulink, Python, and C/C++ in support of mission-critical aerospace and defense programs.
What You'll Do
  • Develop, implement, and refine GNC algorithms for guidance laws, control loops, navigation filters, and state estimation.
  • Support weapon system modeling and simulation, including 6 DOF (six degrees of freedom) simulation environments and subsystem integration.
  • Perform trajectory analysis, mission performance evaluations, and control system stability assessments.
  • Develop navigation solutions integrating IMUs, GPS, INS, seekers, and other sensor modalities.
  • Conduct Monte Carlo analysis, uncertainty modeling, and system performance sensitivity studies.
  • Implement GNC prototypes in MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, or equivalent simulation frameworks.
  • Analyze telemetry, flight test data, and HWIL/SIL outputs to validate system performance.
  • Support requirements decomposition, interface definition, and subsystem integration with E20 system engineering teams.
  • Document models, test results, algorithm behavior, and performance in technical reports and presentations.
  • Participate in technical reviews, design sessions, and engineering working groups with government and contractor personnel.

What You Bring to the Table
  • An active DoD security clearance at the SECRET level or above (or have held an active DoD clearance within the last 2 years)
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline (Master's preferred).
  • 4+ years' experience in GNC engineering, missile guidance, flight controls, or related system modeling.
  • Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and at least one programming language (Python or C/C++).
  • The successful candidate shall have experience with guidance algorithms (proportional navigation, pursuit guidance, optimal guidance, intercept geometry), navigation & estimation, Kalman filtering (EKF/UKF), inertial navigation, GPS/INS integration, sensor fusion, control engineering, PID, LQR, state space control, autopilot design, stability & robustness analysis, M&S (Modeling & Simulation), MATLAB/Simulink, Python (NumPy/SciPy), C/C++ for embedded or real time simulation, and familiarity with 6 DOF modeling.
  • Ability to work with E20 technical SMEs to develop or refine analytical tools, performance models, or algorithmic improvements.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance (current Secret preferred).

☆Bonus Points
  • Familiarity with hardware in the loop (HWIL) or software in the loop (SIL) environments is a plus.
  • Experience supporting missile systems, unmanned systems, or weapons/flight dynamics programs.
  • Experience supporting NSWCDD, NAVSEA, or other DoD weapons engineering divisions.
  • Experience with aerospace flight test data analysis or guidance law verification.
  • Knowledge of seeker modeling, sensor suite integration, or autopilot tuning.

At JRC we offer...
  • A competitive compensation package
  • An exceptional employee benefits program, providing support for our team members' well-being and success
  • The chance to contribute to a high-profile Department of Defense programs and make a positive impact
  • A collaborative work environment where teamwork, creativity, and innovation thrive
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development, helping you advance your career

Apply