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Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer Jobs

Lockheed Martin Corporation

The Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) Subsystems and CoreSim Team is made up of enthusiastic ... Engineering or other related field.

Lockheed Martin Corporation

In this Guidance, Navigation & Control Engineer (Staff, Level IV) position, we are seeking an experienced GNC Engineer who will serve as a Line of Sight (LOS) SME. The role specifically is looking ...

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Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer information

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$41.5K

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How much do associate guidance navigation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate guidance navigation control engineer in the United States is $82,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineers?

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.

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Associate Guidance Navigation Control Engineer jobs near you
Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$117K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.
The Guidance Analysis Department is seeking an experienced Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer (Engineering Specialist - Guidance, Navigation and Control Engineering) to provide GNC support for launch vehicle, missile systems, and missile defense systems for a wide range of customers including the Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC), the Missile Defense Agency, and other civil customers (e.g. NASA).
This position is onsite in El Segundo, CA., requiring at least 4 days onsite.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Assess control system performance of launch, missile defense, and missile system
  • Perform linear and nonlinear control system analyses
  • Derive multi-body, flexible body dynamics equations for supported vehicles
  • Support multiple programs and work independently with both internal and external customers as a technical authority, consultant, primary investigator, or project leader
  • Provide oversight, guidance, and technical advice on customer projects, which may include specialized analytical and experimental studies launch vehicle and missile defense GNC systems

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's in a STEM field
  • 6 or more years of experience in GNC systems
  • Experience with guidance, navigation & control systems, inertial sensors, and actuators applicable to spacecraft and/or launch vehicles
  • Experience performing technical tasks, leading technical teams, and effectively supporting multiple programs, customers, and contractors
  • Proficiency with some of the following tools: MATLAB/Simulink, C/C++, Python, Fortran
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Advanced degree in STEM field or equivalent
  • Expertise in modeling and simulation of spacecraft or launch vehicles
  • Demonstrated ability to provide innovative solutions to challenging technical problems
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of customer, corporate staff, and contractors
  • Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government, is highly desirable. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$117,300.00 - $175,900.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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