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Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer Jobs in Virginia

As a Senior Navigation Engineer in our Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) and Avionics team, you will be at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge navigation solutions for our ...

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation, and control software that powers Auterion's Skynode platform, built on PX4. Your primary focus will ...

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation, and control software that powers Auterion's Skynode platform, built on PX4. Your primary focus will ...

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation, and control software that powers Auterion's Skynode platform, built on PX4. Your primary focus will ...

Lead Mission Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense Space & Security (BDS) has ... Control Systems (ACS)/Guidance Navigation & Control (GNC), spacecraft operations, or mission ...

Lead Mission Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$153K - $207K/yr

Lead Mission Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Defense Space & Security (BDS) has ... Control Systems (ACS)/Guidance Navigation & Control (GNC), spacecraft operations, or mission ...

Control Engineer 4

Winchester, VA · On-site

$112K - $140K/yr

Serve as a beacon of guidance and mentorship for aspiring leaders within M.C. Dean. * Cultivate ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field 5+ years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer information

What is an associate guidance navigation control engineer?

Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineers are early-career professionals who support the design, development, testing, and implementation of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems for aerospace vehicles such as rockets, satellites, or aircraft. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with the modeling and simulation of flight dynamics, developing control algorithms, and analyzing sensor data to ensure accurate guidance and stability. They often work as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team and use specialized software tools to solve complex technical challenges. This role is ideal for those with a background in aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering and a strong interest in flight systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate guidance navigation control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control systems, and mathematics, usually supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Proficiency in simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, programming languages such as C/C++, and experience with navigation sensors or real-time embedded systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for developing reliable guidance and navigation solutions that ensure the safety and performance of aerospace systems.

What are some common challenges faced by associate guidance navigation control engineers during multidisciplinary project collaboration?

Associate Guidance Navigation Control (GNC) Engineers often work closely with teams in software, hardware, and systems engineering. A common challenge is ensuring that the guidance and navigation algorithms are compatible with various hardware platforms and meet system-level requirements. Balancing the needs and feedback from different disciplines, while adhering to project timelines, can require strong communication and adaptability. Proactively engaging in design reviews and cross-team meetings helps minimize misunderstandings and leads to more integrated solutions.

What is the difference between Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer vs Guidance Navigation Control Engineer?

AspectAssociate Guidance Navigation Control EngineerGuidance Navigation Control Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some roles may require internship experienceBachelor's or master's degree; more experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level position, often in aerospace or defense companies, working under supervisionMid-level role with increased responsibilities, often leading projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, defense, and space industriesUsed in similar industries, with more complex project involvement

The main difference lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting tasks, while Guidance Navigation Control Engineers have more experience and handle complex projects independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

GNC Engineer (Aerospace Engineer)

JRC Careers

Dahlgren, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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