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Flight Control Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Senior GNC Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$99K - $137K/yr

Develop control laws and algorithms from conceptual design through simulation, testing, implementation, flight testing, and qualification * Lead the development of GN&C analysis tools and techniques

Develop control laws and algorithms from conceptual design through simulation, testing, implementation, flight testing, and qualification * Lead the development of GN&C analysis tools and techniques

Oversee the development of fault-tolerant flight software responsible for overall command and control of an autonomous space vehicle. * Guide efforts to design, implement, and integrate real-time ...

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Flight Control information

See Houston, TX salary details

$20

$78

$100

How much do flight control jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight control in Houston, TX is $78.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73.94 and $86.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in flight control, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Flight Control often encounter high-pressure situations, such as managing multiple aircraft simultaneously during peak traffic or responding to unexpected weather changes. Maintaining focus and effective communication is crucial to ensure safety and efficiency. Teamwork is essential, as flight controllers regularly coordinate with pilots, ground crews, and other controllers to resolve issues quickly. Ongoing training and simulation exercises help prepare for these challenges, making adaptability and composure key traits for success in this role.

How do I become a flight control?

To become a flight controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aviation, air traffic management, or a related field. They must complete specialized training provided by aviation authorities and pass certification exams, gaining skills in radar operation, communication, and decision-making. Experience in aviation or military service can also be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight controller?

To thrive as a Flight Controller, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training. Familiarity with mission control software, telemetry systems, and flight simulation tools is critical for monitoring and managing spacecraft operations. Exceptional problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure are vital soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These skills ensure the safety, success, and efficiency of space missions by enabling precise decision-making and effective coordination.

What is flight control?

Flight control refers to the systems and processes used to guide and manage the movement of aircraft both on the ground and in the air. This involves the use of flight control surfaces, such as ailerons, rudders, and elevators, as well as electronic systems that help pilots maintain stability, direction, and altitude. In a broader sense, flight control can also refer to the work of air traffic controllers who coordinate aircraft to ensure safe and efficient flight operations. Both the mechanical and operational aspects of flight control are essential for the safety and efficiency of air travel.

What is the difference between Flight Control vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectFlight ControlAir Traffic Controller
CertificationsFAA certifications, pilot licenses, or specialized trainingFAA air traffic control certifications, radar operation training
Work EnvironmentAircraft cockpits, flight decks, or ground control centersControl towers, radar rooms, or en-route centers
Employer & IndustryAirlines, private aviation, military aviationAirports, FAA, military air traffic control
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on piloting and aircraft operationFocuses on managing air traffic and ensuring safety

Flight Control professionals primarily operate aircraft or oversee flight operations, while Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements in airspace and at airports. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in aviation environments, but their responsibilities differ significantly in scope and focus.

Infographic showing various Flight Control job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,349 per year, or $78.5 per hour.

Guidance Navigation & Controls Automation Engineer

Intuitive Machines LLC

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Guidance Navigation & Controls Automation Engineer
Houston, TX

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With the first commercial lunar landing in history, multiple NASA lunar missions in development, and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting our customers and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

About The Position

Intuitive Machines is seeking a Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer to join our team. In this role, the candidate will contribute to the design, development, and testing of the GNC system for the Lunar Data Network (LDN) spacecraft, which will provide navigation and communications services to lunar users. This position will support real-time GNC flight software development, flight control automation, HWIL sensor and effector integration, performance analysis, and testing.

Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to the design, development, and testing of GNC automation for the LDN spacecraft
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams across software and hardware systems
  • Develop, test, and peer review GNC flight software in C and C++
  • Support the selection, assessment, and integration of GNC sensors and effector systems
  • Execute and analyze 6-DOF simulations to evaluate expected on-orbit performance
  • Support navigation HWIL sensor and effector integration and testing for the LDN satellite constellation
  • Assist in real-time flight software development, integration, and testing for the LDN satellite

Qualifications:

  • BS or MS in Aerospace Engineering or related field with 3–7 years of relevant experience
  • Experience developing spacecraft automation software
  • Experience with real-time software development
  • Familiarity with GN&C hardware including IMU, Star Trackers, GPS, LIDAR, and/or OpNav systems
  • Experience with SWIL and/or HWIL testing and integration
  • Exposure to relative navigation, image processing, or feature detection techniques
  • Experience supporting flight control analysis and evaluating vehicle performance and stability
  • Proficiency in C, C++, and/or Python
  • Experience with GN&C sensor testing, planning, or modeling
  • Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team environment
  • Foundational knowledge of spacecraft dynamics and orbital mechanics
  • Experience with JIRA and Agile development processes
  • Familiarity with VxWorks or other real-time operating systems is a plus
  • Experience with Git version control preferred
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and documentation skills
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and effectively

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Hands-on experience with navigation sensor hardware, Kalman filtering, LIDAR, real-time software, Monte Carlo analysis, and C/C++ or Python
  • Experience contributing to GNC development efforts on spacecraft or satellite programs
  • Prior experience working with or supporting satellite systems


US EEO Statement

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.