Guidance, Navigation, & Controls (GNC), Navigation Engineer

Axiom Space is building the world’s first commercial space station – Axiom Station. This next-generation orbital platform supports sustained human presence in space and advances innovation and research in microgravity. Axiom Space provides commercial human spaceflight services to the International Space Station and develops advanced spacesuits for the Moon and low-Earth orbit. We are building era-defining space infrastructure to empower our civilization to explore beyond Earth. Axiom Space fosters an inclusive work environment and seeks a bold and dynamic GNC Engineer who brings high ownership, execution capability, growth mindset, and a strong understanding of science, technology, and space systems. POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a resilient, high-energy, experienced Senior GNC Engineer with a background in designing control systems for flight vehicles. The engineer will contribute to the development of GNC control systems across the program lifecycle for Axiom Space’s modules. The role requires the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams, apply a system-level perspective, strong technical skills, good time management, and clear communication. This position is onsite at the Space Station Development Facility (SSDF).

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Design, analyze, and implement GNC algorithms for aerospace vehicles. Develop sensor fusion algorithms (e.g., Kalman filtering, extended/unscented KF, complementary filters). Evaluate and integrate navigation sensors (e.g. IMUs, GPS, star trackers, LiDAR). Perform 6‑DOF modeling, simulation, and performance analysis to evaluate system behavior under nominal and off‑nominal conditions. Build high‑fidelity dynamic models of vehicles, sensors, actuators, and environmental disturbances. Conduct Monte Carlo analyses and sensitivity studies to validate robustness and reliability. Use tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, or similar environments to develop simulations. Translate GNC algorithms into flight‑ready software, ensuring numerical stability, computational efficiency, and real‑time performance. Collaborate with embedded software teams to integrate, test, and verify GNC functionality on hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) systems. Support development of requirements, interface definitions, and verification plans for flight software. Plan and execute verification and validation activities, including unit tests, SIL/HIL testing, and integrated system tests. Analyze flight test or mission data to assess GNC performance and identify areas for improvement. Support troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis for anomalies observed during testing or operations. Work with hardware teams to define performance requirements and ensure compatibility with GNC architecture. Contribute to system‑level design reviews, requirements development, and architecture decisions. Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, structures, and mission operations teams to ensure GNC solutions align with overall vehicle design. Provide technical leadership on sub‑projects, mentor junior engineers, and support design trade studies. Prepare technical reports, design documentation, test plans, and analysis summaries for internal and external stakeholders. Present findings at design reviews, customer meetings, and cross‑disciplinary engineering forums. Ensure compliance with aerospace standards, safety requirements, and certification processes. Communicate project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership. Implement and maintain agile project management methodologies throughout the project lifecycle. Perform additional job duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or other related technical degree required 4-9 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required Development of navigation systems on flight vehicles (spacecraft preferred) with experience in at least one of the areas: Kalman Filter development and performance analysis GNC hardware, including IMUs, GPS, Star Trackers and LiDAR FDIR algorithms and safety for human rated spacecraft SIL and HIL testing and integration Sensor testing, performance characterization, and model development Experience developing with 6‑DOF Monte Carlo simulations, with experience with NASA’s Trick simulation framework and JEOD preferred. Proficient with C++, Matlab, and/or Python coding languages. Track record of delivering outcomes in ambiguous, fast-moving environments Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges Proven to deliver high quality results under tight deadlines Grit Passion for space and the mission Entrepreneurial, growth mindset Perseverance Resourceful, adaptable Skills Executes priorities with precision and pace High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally Tech-savvy in using systems and tools to move faster and smarter Excellent written and verbal communication skills Competencies Embody our core values of leadership, innovation, and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Accountability Sense of Urgency Extreme Ownership Execution and Delivery Efficiency Effectiveness WORK ENVIRONMENT Generally, an office environment, but work may involve indoor or outdoor tasks depending on the assignment. Requirements Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation. Management retains the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones. Physical Requirements Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time) May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time) Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.) Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. #J-18808-Ljbffr Alumni Ventures