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Spacecraft Gnc Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior GNC Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Senior GNC Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct-hire Senior ... Build high-fidelity simulations to model spacecraft dynamics, sensors, and actuators * Develop ...

Work spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation * Develop modern, software ...

Work spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation * Develop modern, software ...

Work spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation * Develop modern, software ...

Senior GNC Engineer, Space

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

Lead spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation. * Develop modern ...

This is a hands-on engineering role across the full spacecraft lifecycle - from requirements and ... Contribute to the design and implementation of spacecraft GNC systems across new and existing ...

Senior GNC Engineer, Space

Washington, DC · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Lead spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation. * Develop modern ...

GNC Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

GNC Engineer Department: Autonomous Systems Employment Type: Full Time Location: Boulder County ... Develop robust algorithms for spacecraft: satellites in LEO and GEO, large upper stages, and ...

GNC Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

GNC Engineer Department: Autonomous Systems Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach ... Develop robust algorithms for spacecraft: satellites in LEO and GEO, large upper stages, and ...

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Spacecraft Gnc Engineer information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do spacecraft gnc engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 a Spacecraft GNC Engineer do?

A Spacecraft GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer is responsible for designing and developing the systems that control a spacecraft’s trajectory, orientation, and stability during its mission. This includes creating algorithms and hardware to ensure the spacecraft can accurately follow its planned path, avoid obstacles, and maintain its intended orientation in space. GNC Engineers work closely with other engineering teams to integrate sensors, actuators, and software for optimal spacecraft performance. Their work is critical for mission success, from launch through to landing or orbit insertion.

What are some common challenges Spacecraft GNC Engineers face when integrating guidance, navigation, and control systems with other spacecraft subsystems?

Spacecraft GNC Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring seamless integration between GNC systems and other subsystems like propulsion, power, and communication. These challenges include managing interface requirements, minimizing signal interference, and ensuring real-time data synchronization across various hardware and software components. Successful integration requires strong cross-disciplinary collaboration, effective communication with subsystem teams, and meticulous system-level testing to identify and resolve incompatibilities before launch.

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

To thrive as a Spacecraft GNC Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control theory, and dynamics, typically with a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in software tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, C/C++, and familiarity with simulation environments and flight software is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the development of reliable guidance, navigation, and control systems that are vital for spacecraft safety and mission success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Spacecraft Gnc Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Spacecraft Gnc Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.
Senior GNC Engineer

Senior GNC Engineer

Protingent

San Carlos, CA • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Position Title: 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 algorithms for spacecraft attitude and orbit control
  • Build high-fidelity simulations to model spacecraft dynamics, sensors, and actuators
  • Develop state estimation algorithms (e.g., Kalman filters) for navigation and attitude determination
  • Design control laws for pointing, stabilization, and orbital maneuvers
  • Collaborate with propulsion and hardware teams to integrate actuators and sensors into control systems
  • Work with software engineers to implement GNC algorithms into flight software
  • Validate system performance through simulation, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and real-world data
  • Support integration, launch preparation, and on-orbit operations
  • Analyze flight data, troubleshoot anomalies, and improve system performance over time
  • Contribute to system architecture decisions across vehicle and mission design

Job Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in GNC, controls, or related fields
  • Strong fundamentals in dynamics, control theory, and estimation
  • Experience with simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or similar)
  • Experience implementing or testing control systems in real-world or simulated environments
  • Ability to work in fast-paced, multidisciplinary engineering teams

Preferred Job Qualifications:
  • Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field
  • Experience with spacecraft GNC systems or orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with sensors such as star trackers, IMUs, and GPS
  • Experience with propulsion-integrated control systems
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and validation
  • Background in high-reliability or mission-critical systems
  • Experience contributing to flight software or embedded systems

Job Details:
  • Job Type: Direct Hire
  • Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000
  • Location: Seattle, WA (Onsite)
  • ITAR obligations are associated with this role, U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a) (1), (3) is required.

About Protingent: Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation - from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We're passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.
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Nikhil Jhamb