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Gnc Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

GNC Engineer (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

GNC ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to ...

SpaceX

GNC Engineer, ADCS (Starlink)

Redmond, WA

$145K - $175K/yr

GNC ENGINEER, ADCS (STARLINK) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, physics, and software ...

SpaceX

GNC Engineer (Starlink)

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$155K - $185K/yr

GNC ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to ...

Anduril Industries

GNC Engineer, Space

Washington, DC · On-site

The GNC engineering team will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. The GNC Engineer will work algorithm design, truth and ...

Anduril Industries

GNC Engineer, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

The GNC engineering team will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. The GNC Engineer will work algorithm design, truth and ...

Impulse Space

GNC Engineer

Boulder, CO

Description As a Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineer at Impulse Space, you will own all aspects of and provide outstanding technical contribution to vehicle GNC in all phases of development ...

Protingent

Senior GNC Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Senior GNC Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct-hire Senior GNC Engineer opportunity. Job Responsibilities: * Design and develop guidance, navigation, and control ...

Lux Aeterna

GNC Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

... GNC Engineer to design, implement, and validate the flight-critical guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) software that flies our reusable spacecraft platforms. This is a hands-on role where your ...

Anduril Industries

GNC Engineer, Space

Washington, DC · On-site

The GNC engineering team will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. The GNC Engineer will work algorithm design, truth and ...

AeroVironment

Principal GNC Engineer

Huntsville, AL

The GNC Principal Engineer is the overall technical authority for the Kinetic Air and Missile Defense Division. The GNC PE is responsible for supporting the development, integration, and testing of ...

Muon Space

GNC Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$124K - $189K/yr

About the Role Muon seeks a talented Spacecraft Attitude Control System (ACS) AKA Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) engineer specializing in attitude control design to join our team. The ideal ...

MBDA INC.

GNC Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

About the Role MBDA is seeking a highly skilled Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer to join our dynamic engineering team. This role supports the design, development, and verification of ...

MBDA INC.

GNC Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Salary: About the Role MBDA is seeking a highly skilled Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer to join our dynamic engineering team. This role supports the design, development, and ...

Anduril Industries

GNC Engineer, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

The GNC engineering team will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. The GNC Engineer will work algorithm design, truth and ...

Anduril Industries

GNC Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

Develop models required to support functional evaluation of GNC software REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS * Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering ...

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Gnc Engineer information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do gnc engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for gnc engineer in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are GNC engineers in demand?

GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineers are in demand in aerospace, defense, and robotics industries due to their specialized skills in designing and testing control systems. Employment opportunities are strong for those with expertise in control theory, embedded systems, and relevant software tools, especially in organizations working on advanced aerospace projects. The demand is driven by ongoing technological advancements and the need for precise navigation and control systems in various applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Gnc Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a GNC Engineer, you need a solid background in control systems, dynamics, navigation algorithms, and aerospace engineering, often complemented by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, C/C++, and experience with sensor integration or real-time embedded systems are highly valued, along with certifications like EIT or PE being beneficial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication skills help you excel in collaborative and interdisciplinary environments. These competencies are critical for designing and optimizing guidance, navigation, and control systems that ensure mission success and safety in aerospace projects.

How to become a GNC engineer?

To become a GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with control systems, simulation software, and programming languages like MATLAB or C++ is essential, and advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher. Certifications in systems engineering or control systems can also enhance job prospects.

What is a GNC Engineer job?

A GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer is responsible for developing algorithms and systems that enable vehicles, such as spacecraft, aircraft, or autonomous robots, to navigate and control their movement accurately. They design control systems, work with sensors and actuators, and develop software for real-time decision-making. GNC engineers use techniques from control theory, signal processing, and machine learning to ensure precision and stability in dynamic environments. Their work is crucial for missions requiring autonomous operation, such as space exploration, missile guidance, and drone navigation.

What are typical day-to-day responsibilities for a GNC Engineer?

As a GNC Engineer, your daily responsibilities often include designing and refining algorithms for guidance, navigation, and control; running simulations to test system performance; and analyzing flight data to troubleshoot and optimize system behavior. You may work closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and systems engineers to integrate your solutions into larger aerospace platforms such as rockets, satellites, or UAVs. Collaboration through team meetings, design reviews, and documentation is routine, and you may occasionally participate in field tests or flight demonstrations. Staying organized and adaptive is key, as priorities can shift quickly depending on project timelines and technical challenges.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves leadership roles, bonuses, stock options, or working in high-demand industries with complex projects.

How much do GNC engineers get paid?

GNC engineers typically earn an average salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and specific engineering discipline. Salaries can vary based on certifications, skills in control systems or automation, and the complexity of projects they handle.
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Gnc Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gnc Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
GNC Engineer II/ Senior GNC Engineer I - Mission Formulation

GNC Engineer II/ Senior GNC Engineer I - Mission Formulation

Rocket Lab Corporation

Littleton, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

GNC ENGINEER II/ SENIOR GNC ENGINEER I - MISSION FORMULATION

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Littleton, CO, the GNC Engineer II/ Senior GNC Engineer I - Mission Formulation is responsible for Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) design, modeling, analyses, and testing for Rocket Lab launches and missions. You'll play an integral part of Rocket Lab's Global Launch Services (GLS) Mission Formulation Team, which works closely with other Engineering teams and Production to bring new launch and mission concepts to life.

As part of the Mission Formulation team, you'll be responsible for conducting trades studies, preliminary and final mission analyses, and definition and implementation of detailed designs for Rocket Lab's launch programs. This team is also primarily responsible for the formulation and implementation of launches and missions for classified missions on HASTE and Electron launch vehicles.

Success in this position will be measured by the value of the knowledge and experience in launch vehicle design and mission experience that you bring into this role, your ability to contribute to projects without supervision, successful collaboration with other teams across Rocket Lab, and the skillful prioritization of competing engineering projects across the group.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • GNC contact to Business Development for proposals and mission definition
  • Launch and mission operational concept development
  • Orbital and suborbital trajectory design and analysis
  • Work with external stakeholders and customers for mission-specific requirements engineering
  • Document proposed GNC solutions and participate in design reviews with customers
  • Support hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing to verify trajectories, GNC, and flight code performance
  • Conduct Monte Carlo simulation analyses to define and verify launch and mission operations
  • Develop and support release of flight code for pre-launch ground testing, launch, and mission operations
  • Develop tools and processes for automating common GNC modelling and analysis tasks

(Please note: This position can be hired at the GNC Engineer II or Senior GNC Engineer I level.)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS GNC ENGINEER II:

  • Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of industry experience in GNC/ADCS
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics and/ or closed-loop control systems, preferably launch vehicles
  • Experience with trajectory optimization
  • Proven experience developing real-time control and/or estimation algorithms in autonomous vehicles, preferably launch vehicles
  • Active Secret security clearance OR Ability to obtain and maintain one

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR GNC ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree and 5+ years of industry experience in GNC/ADCS
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics and/ or closed-loop control systems, preferably launch vehicles
  • Experience with trajectory optimization
  • Proven experience developing real-time control and/or estimation algorithms in autonomous vehicles, preferably launch vehicles
  • Active Secret security clearance OR Ability to obtain and maintain one

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • Experience with requirements assessments and interface control document generation
  • Experience with git version control.
  • 3+ years' experience in modelling, simulation and/or control of dynamics systems, particularly rigid bodies
  • 3+ years' experience with Python development
  • 3+ years' experience with data analysis using MATLAB and/or SciPy
  • Experience developing in C/C++
  • Experience with ASTOS or similar mission analysis, trajectory optimization, vehicle design and simulation tools
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships
  • Creative, analytical, and good at problem solving
  • Ability to work on own initiative and to plan daily workflow to meet higher level tasks

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (CO Only)
$105,000—$155,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.