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Entry Level Gnc Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$176 - $210/hr

From entry-level engineers to mission program leads, we create space for every employee to thrive ... Ten or more years of relevant experience in aerospace vehicle modeling, trajectory simulation, GNC ...

Entry Level Gnc Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level gnc engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level gnc engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level GNC engineer?

Entry Level GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineers are professionals who are just starting their careers in the field of aerospace or robotics engineering, focusing on the systems that guide and control vehicles such as aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to design, test, and implement algorithms and hardware that ensure a vehicle follows a desired path safely and accurately. Their responsibilities often include simulation, modeling, data analysis, and troubleshooting of control systems. Entry level GNC engineers usually have a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level GNC engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level GNC Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control systems, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, and simulation tools, as well as experience with software version control systems, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help candidates excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing guidance, navigation, and control systems that ensure mission success and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level GNC engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world aerospace applications?

Entry-level GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers often find that real-world aerospace projects involve more complex systems integration, strict regulatory requirements, and rigorous testing compared to academic work. Adapting to multidisciplinary teams and learning to communicate technical ideas to non-specialists can also be challenging. Additionally, new engineers must quickly become proficient with industry-standard simulation tools and software, as well as adhere to project deadlines and documentation standards. Supportive mentorship and continuous learning are key to overcoming these challenges and succeeding in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Gnc Engineer vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Gnc EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; knowledge of GNC systemsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; fundamentals of mechanics and design
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and integration of guidance, navigation, and control systems in aerospace or defense industriesDesign, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems across various industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space sectorsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

Entry Level Gnc Engineers focus on guidance, navigation, and control systems within aerospace and defense industries, requiring specialized knowledge in these areas. In contrast, Entry Level Mechanical Engineers work on mechanical systems across diverse industries, emphasizing mechanics and design. Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree but differ in industry focus and technical expertise.

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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Gnc Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Gnc Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Gnc Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Gnc Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Gnc Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Senior Engineer

Aurex

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$176 - $210/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Don't Wait for the Future. Build it Here.

We seek the curious, the brilliant, and the relentless. If you’re driven to solve complex problems, operate at the edge of technology, and make systems smarter, faster, and safer, you’ll find a home here. Advance your career in a company that builds for what's next.

Culture of Excellence

Grit, Growth, and Great People

We’re a team of high performers who don’t settle. Our culture rewards curiosity, integrity, and results—without the ego. You’ll be surrounded by people who challenge you, support you, and celebrate your wins. We work hard, solve big problems, and have each other’s backs.

More Than a Paycheck

We believe exceptional work deserves exceptional rewards. Our total compensation goes beyond base pay to include robust benefits, performance incentives, and investment in your future. From health and retirement to career development and time off—you’ll have what you need to thrive, in and out of the office.

Growth Without Limits

Start Strong. Keep Climbing.

From entry-level engineers to mission program leads, we create space for every employee to thrive. Our work is complex, our standards are high, and our support systems are built to help you rise—wherever you're starting from.

People at Aurex

“I enjoy working at Aurex for the innovative environment and strong focus on work-life balance… The company values creativity, supports professional growth, and fosters collaboration. I feel empowered to make a difference, both through meaningful projects and through volunteering in my community.”

People at Aurex

“I love being part of the platform because it offers the resources and opportunities of a larger company while maintaining a tight-knit, small company culture. What motivates me most is the environment it creates, one that supports me in growing professionally, academically, and personally.”

jacob Ballentine
Junior Reverse Engineer

People at Aurex

“What I love about working with Aurex is that I always feel valued and appreciated, and that work never goes unrecognized … Another thing I love is that, though small, Aurex offers tremendous expertise in various fields … Finally, the diversity of projects and partners means … many different opportunities—you will be helping to create history.”

Nathaniel DeCecco

Mechanical Engineer

People at Aurex

“What I like most about the company is the strong sense of community… It truly feels like a place where I belong. I’m motivated by the chance to grow, learn, and take on new challenges… Being part of a passionate, driven team makes every day rewarding.”

People at Aurex

“I appreciate that our company focuses on growth and innovation in aerospace… I’m motivated by solving complex challenges and building reliable software for launch operations. It’s rewarding to know our voice system is used by the government and major contractors—making a real impact. What a dream!”

Astrid Leighton
Software Engineer

Find Open Positions

Aurex is a mission-focused aerospace and defense company building the next frontier of deterrence. From hypersonics and missile defense to hardened networks and orbital systems, we design, test, and deliver the platforms that turn unproven ideas into battlefield-ready capability.

Born in Huntsville and built for speed, Aurex brings together aerospace veterans, combat-tested operators, and forward-leaning technologists to solve problems that matter—fast. We move from whiteboard to warfighter with precision, clarity, and zero tolerance for fluff.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and run trajectory simulations for missiles, spacecraft, hypersonic vehicles, and other aerospace systems.
  • Build, validate, and maintain 3-DOF and 6-DOF vehicle models.
  • Model vehicle dynamics, propulsion, aerodynamics, navigation, guidance, and control behavior using available vehicle data and engineering assumptions.
  • Evaluate model performance and verify accurate implementation against expected system behavior.
  • Conduct trajectory, performance, and trade-space analyses to answer complex engineering and mission questions.
  • Optimize simulation performance for integration into larger modeling and simulation environments.
  • Collaborate with software developers, analysts, and subject matter experts to support mission-focused simulation tool development.
  • Document modeling approaches, assumptions, analysis results, and technical findings.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • Ten or more years of relevant experience in aerospace vehicle modeling, trajectory simulation, GNC analysis, or related modeling and simulation work.
  • Experience with missile defense system architecture and elements.
  • Experience with C++ or Python.
  • Experience integrating models or algorithms into larger modeling and simulation architectures.
  • Experience organizing software projects and using version control tools such as Git
  • Experience developing guidance algorithms, control loops, or related flight dynamics models.
  • Familiarity with Monte Carlo analysis, sensitivity studies, or performance trade studies.
  • Ability to synthesize vehicle data and engineering inputs into usable simulation models.
  • Active Secret or higher security clearance.
  • Ability to work on-site at an Aurex office in Huntsville, AL.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Twelve or more years of relevant experience.
  • Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field.
  • Experience with trajectory simulation tools such as TAOS, QuickShot, POST2, or similar.
  • Familiar with aerothermal predictions.
How You Will Be Rewarded

The salary range for this role is $176,000 - $210,000 annually. We offer a comprehensive total rewards approach to compensation, providing incentives and benefits that extend far beyond the base salary. Compensation is determined by the candidate’s work experience, education, training, and relevant skills. We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, well-being, and professional growth.

Job Location: Huntsville, AL

Aurex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It prohibits discrimination, retaliation, or any type of harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, citizenship, immigration status, or any other legally protected status in employment, including in hiring, firing, and recruiting decisions. All applicants must be authorized to work lawfully in the United States for positions at Aurex. There may be limited circumstances in which a law, regulation, executive order, or government contract would require certain citizenship; only in those limited circumstances would Aurex require certain citizenship status to comply with the relevant law, regulation, executive order, or government contract applicable to that position. For all other positions, Aurex does not consider an applicant’s citizenship but only requires that the applicant be authorized to work lawfully in the United States. If a position is one that falls under export control laws and regulations requiring authorization from the U.S. government to access export-controlled items, any hiring is contingent on the applicant passing the export compliance assessment, which is separate from the I-9 process, for that specific position. A background check will be required prior to any hire.

Elevate your career by joining the Aurex Platform, a leader in aerospace innovation!

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