Principal Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are:


Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different - an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures - where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You'll Do:

The Principal Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer will lead the GNC subsystem development life cycle of Space Kinetic's platform. From concept development through mission operations, the Principal GNC engineer will be responsible for developing algorithms that can be implemented in FSW, tested in simulation / hardware environments, and monitored in flight. The Principal GNC Engineer will be responsible for the overall subsystem development schedule to include both hardware and software elements. The Principal GNC Engineer will work closely with other system elements to define interface requirements the GNC system. The Principal GNC Engineer will collaborate closely with subcontractors to ensure seamless integration and performance of the GNC system across all external and internal interfaces.

This role will lead the development of an entirely new GNC architecture for a first-of-its-kind spacecraft platform. For someone excited by novel technical challenges, mission-critical systems, and work on the bleeding edge of what has been flown before, this is a rare opportunity to help define a new paradigm in space operations.

• Lead a high performing and cross functional GNC team
• Architect and implement a novel GNC design for a unique spacecraft platform
• Work with subcontractors to develop and integrate GNC software and hardware
• Own GNC subsystem level requirements
• Design of algorithms for FSW development
• Creates / Contributes to ground tools for constellation management
• Owns GNC component level hardware trades and selection
• Owns GNC level Verification and Validation (V&V) activities
• Conducts GNC design analysis and Monte Carlo simulations
• Supports / conducts hardware in the loop verification in system testbeds
• Support internal and external design reviews
• Works with senior management for GNC schedule and key milestones.

What It Takes:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering along with 5+ years of GNC experience.
• Prior Spacecraft and Satellite Development and Operations experience.
• Experience working cross functionally across subsystems to accomplish mission requirements.
• Prior experience directly interfacing with aerospace customers in the commercial or government sectors.
• End to End project lifecycle experience.
• Hardware in the Loop testing experience to validate GNC models.
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder).
• Ability to maintain or obtain a Government Security Clearance is required.

What We'd Love:

• Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with flight software frameworks (e.g., NASA cFS, F' FPrime, or custom architectures).
• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and interface control documentation.

*Our vision is unique, and so is the team we're building. If you're driven to succeed in this role, even if your background doesn't fully align with every qualification, we want your application.

Where You'll Be:

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year).

What We Offer:

• Equity-Based Compensation
• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure
• Health and Wellness Stipend
• Commuter Benefits

ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here


Equal Employment Opportunity:
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.


The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.


Pay Range

$165,000-$215,000 USD