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Guidance Navigation Control information

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$81

How much do guidance navigation control jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for guidance navigation control in the United States is $54.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.55 and $62.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Guidance Navigation Control (GNC) Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Guidance Navigation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control systems, and applied mathematics, usually backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, programming languages such as C++ or Python, and experience with embedded systems or flight software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments. These skills are crucial for designing reliable guidance and control systems that ensure the safety, accuracy, and performance of aerospace vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in GNC roles often encounter challenges such as ensuring system reliability in dynamic environments, integrating complex hardware and software components, and maintaining accuracy under rapidly changing conditions. To address these, GNC engineers typically rely on rigorous simulation and testing, cross-functional collaboration with systems and software teams, and continuous learning to stay updated on emerging technologies. Proactive communication and agile problem-solving are essential to navigate the fast-paced and detail-oriented nature of this role.

What is Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC)?

Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) refers to the engineering discipline focused on directing the movement of vehicles such as aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and autonomous vehicles. Guidance determines the desired path or trajectory, navigation estimates the vehicle's current position and velocity, and control ensures the vehicle follows the desired path by adjusting its actuators. Together, GNC systems enable precise and safe operation of vehicles in complex environments. Professionals in this field work on designing algorithms, integrating sensors, and testing hardware to achieve reliable performance.

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

AspectGuidance Navigation ControlGuidance Navigation Control
Required CertificationsOften requires aerospace or engineering certifications, such as FAA or industry-specific credentialsSame certifications typically needed, focusing on aerospace engineering credentials
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in aerospace, defense, or space industries, working on aircraft or spacecraft systemsSimilar environment, involving design, testing, and operation of navigation systems in aerospace projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace companies, defense contractors, and space agenciesSame industry usage, with focus on navigation system development and integration
Common Search & Comparison IntentOften compared with related roles like Guidance Navigation Control to clarify responsibilitiesSame comparison, emphasizing technical differences or overlaps

Guidance Navigation Control professionals focus on designing, testing, and maintaining navigation systems for aerospace applications. The role overlaps significantly with other aerospace engineering positions, making the comparison important for understanding specific responsibilities within the industry.

More about Guidance Navigation Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Guidance Navigation Control jobs? Cities with the most Guidance Navigation Control job openings:
What states have the most Guidance Navigation Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Guidance Navigation Control jobs include:

Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Starcloud

Redmond, WA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Company Overview:
Starcloud is building a network of data centers in space, starting at kilowatts and scaling to gigawatt capacity. Falling launch costs allow us to take advantage of the abundant energy, radiative cooling techniques, and ability to rapidly scale in space. Join our team, push the boundaries of the space economy, and be part of this pioneering effort to redefine the future of energy.
Position Overview:
As a GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer at Starcloud, you will own the ADCS of our in-orbit data centers. You will be instrumental in developing algorithms, simulations, and tools, demanding an innovative and highly skilled individual with a strong foundation in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, and software development. You will be responsible for selecting ADCS architectures, creating and maintaining production code, performing detailed performance analysis, and supporting on-call operations to ensure our satellite network operates at peak efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Algorithm and Software Development:
    • Develop and implement high-reliability and high-performance GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, and dashboards
    • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews to ensure high-quality software solutions.
    • Conduct comprehensive data analysis to review performance metrics from various elements of the satellite constellation and network.
    • Produce detailed technical documentation for programs, algorithms, and analytical methods.
  • System Integration and Support:
    • Support on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites, and reviewing network data to maintain optimal network performance.
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance GNC system performance and ensure seamless integration.
  • Optimization and Analysis:
    • Perform constellation design and optimization, fleet management, satellite orbit transfer automation, and collision avoidance.
    • Conduct constellation-level and network-level analysis of both existing and proposed satellite systems.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Experience in developing, debugging, and deploying software for spacecraft GNC
  • Deep understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline or Physics
  • Proven experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance through simulation and validating simulation models.
  • Expertise in state estimation, particularly in attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation.
  • Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of spacecraft flight disciplines, including structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration.
  • Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, startup environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Compensation and Benefits:
Starcloud offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
  • Stock options, discretionary bonuses, and other long-term incentives.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
  • Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.

Additional Requirements:
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to support critical project milestones.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible for authorization under U.S. export regulations.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Starcloud is committed to fostering an inclusive and meritocratic workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify our Human Resources Department.
Join Starcloud and shape the future!
Embrace the challenge, push technological boundaries, and contribute to solving the global energy challenge. Apply today to join our visionary team dedicated to innovation and advancing humanity.
We receive many applications, and so we apologize that we may not be able to respond to every applicant.