1

Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $180K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a seasoned Spacecraft GNC Engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the ...

About the Role We are seeking a Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early) to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position ...

About the Role We are seeking a seasoned Senior Spacecraft GNC Engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do internship spacecraft gnc engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for internship spacecraft 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.

What does an Internship Spacecraft GNC Engineer do?

An Internship Spacecraft GNC Engineer assists in the design, analysis, and testing of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) systems for spacecraft. Their work often involves supporting senior engineers with simulations, data analysis, and algorithm development to ensure spacecraft stability and accuracy during missions. Interns may also help with hardware testing and integration, learning about spacecraft sensors, actuators, and control systems. This role offers hands-on experience with advanced aerospace technologies and helps interns develop critical engineering skills for a career in the space industry.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and learning opportunities as an Internship Spacecraft GNC Engineer?

As an Internship Spacecraft GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer, you will typically be paired with experienced engineers who provide mentorship and guidance throughout your internship. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in hands-on projects, such as assisting with the simulation, testing, and analysis of spacecraft navigation and control systems. Interns often attend team meetings, collaborate with interdisciplinary groups, and may contribute to technical documentation and presentations. This environment is designed to help you develop practical engineering skills and gain exposure to real-world GNC challenges, setting a solid foundation for a future career in aerospace engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Spacecraft GNC Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Spacecraft GNC Engineer, you need a solid understanding of aerospace engineering principles, control theory, and a relevant academic background in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, model-based design, and knowledge of spacecraft GNC systems are typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams are essential soft skills. These competencies are vital for ensuring precise spacecraft navigation, stability, and mission success in a highly technical and team-oriented environment.

What is the difference between Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer vs Internship Satellite Systems Engineer?

AspectInternship Spacecraft Gnc EngineerInternship Satellite Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, knowledge of control systems, programming skillsEngineering degree, focus on satellite subsystems, electronics knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing spacecraft navigation and control systemsDeveloping satellite hardware and communication systems
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace companies, space agenciesCommon in satellite manufacturing firms, aerospace industry
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to spacecraft navigation and controlComparing satellite subsystem engineering internships

Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineers focus on spacecraft navigation, guidance, and control systems, requiring skills in control theory and programming. In contrast, Internship Satellite Systems Engineers work on satellite hardware and communication subsystems. Both roles are vital in aerospace, but they differ in technical focus and daily tasks.

More about Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs include:
Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Apex

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$112K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
We are seeking a seasoned Spacecraft GNC Engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position, attitude, knowledge and stability requirements of our bus. You will have an opportunity to approach this from a clean sheet design and inform coupled trades across the vehicle architecture. You will be innovative in your approach to push the limits of design and performance, while disrupting and making an impact on the industry. This role reports directly into the Director of Spacecraft.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement GNC algorithms for satellite systems, including attitude determination and control, orbit determination and control, and precision pointing.
  • Conduct analysis of spacecraft dynamics and perform simulations to evaluate system performance, stability, and accuracy.
  • Design, develop, and test spacecraft control systems, including reaction wheels, thrusters, and magnetic torquers, to achieve desired mission objectives.
  • Collaborate with spacecraft and payload engineers to define system requirements and ensure GNC system compatibility and integration.
  • Perform trade studies and make recommendations for optimal GNC configurations, considering factors such as power consumption, mass, and cost.
  • Develop and execute test plans and procedures for GNC systems, including system-level testing, performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.
  • Analyze and interpret spacecraft telemetry data to diagnose and troubleshoot GNC-related anomalies and performance issues.
  • Collaborate with software engineers to develop GNC software modules and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with overall satellite systems.
  • Stay up-to-date with industry advancements and emerging technologies in GNC systems, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, system engineers, and operations personnel.
  • Develop GNC algorithm and subsystem tests and validation criteria for functional and performance verification.

Requirements:
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of professional experience as a GNC Engineer, preferably in the satellite or aerospace industry.
  • Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, Python with experience in numerical simulation and analysis.
  • Familiarity with GNC hardware and software components, such as sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, star trackers), actuators, and control algorithms.
  • Experience with simulation tools and software packages commonly used in spacecraft GNC engineering (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK).
  • Knowledge of industry standards and protocols for satellite GNC systems, such as CCSDS, ECSS, and GPS/GNSS.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex system dynamics and propose effective solutions.
  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.
  • Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.

#LI-HC1
Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer For Full-time Employees:
  • Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
  • Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
  • Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
  • Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
  • World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
  • Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.