Lead Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer

Job Title: Lead Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer
Job Location: Los Angeles
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Engineering
Job Overview:
We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Lead Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer to join our client in Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will lead the development and implementation of GNC systems for aircraft or spacecraft. This role requires expertise in designing and optimizing control systems, navigation algorithms, and guidance strategies to ensure the precision and safety of flight operations. The Lead GNC Engineer will guide a team of engineers, work cross-functionally with other departments, and play a crucial role in advancing innovative technologies in the aerospace industry.
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems for [aircraft, spacecraft, or other systems].
• Develop and optimize algorithms for flight control, path planning, attitude determination, and navigation using sensor fusion techniques (e.g., GPS, IMU, radar, etc.).
• Collaborate with systems engineers, hardware engineers, and software teams to ensure seamless integration of GNC systems with overall vehicle design.
• Perform system modeling, simulation, and analysis to evaluate GNC performance and robustness in various flight scenarios.
• Lead and mentor a team of GNC engineers, providing technical guidance and oversight throughout the development lifecycle.
• Oversee the design and execution of test plans, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, simulation-based verification, and field tests.
• Develop GNC-related documentation, including system requirements, design specifications, verification reports, and test results.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to GNC systems during development, testing, and operational phases.
• Ensure that GNC systems meet regulatory and safety standards (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254) and comply with industry best practices.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in GNC technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous systems, to introduce innovative solutions.
• Provide regular technical updates to senior management and stakeholders on the progress of GNC development.
• Ensure that GNC systems are optimized for reliability, efficiency, and performance in real-world operational conditions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• Proven experience (8+ years) in the development of GNC systems for [aerospace or related industries], with a strong focus on guidance, control algorithms, and navigation systems.
• Expertise in control theory, linear and nonlinear systems, flight mechanics, and sensor fusion techniques.
• Proficiency in software development languages, such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, or similar tools for modeling, simulation, and algorithm development.
• Experience with real-time control systems, embedded systems, and flight hardware integration.
• Strong understanding of aerospace dynamics and control laws, including stability, performance, and robustness in various flight environments.
• Experience with GNC system validation and testing techniques, including HIL simulation, flight testing, and performance analysis.
• Experience leading or mentoring a team of engineers, with a focus on technical direction, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and report to senior management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a results-oriented approach to engineering challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with autonomous flight systems, path planning, and mission optimization for aircraft, drones, or spacecraft.
• Familiarity with software development processes and standards for safety-critical systems (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254, or similar).
• Expertise in machine learning and AI techniques applied to GNC systems.
• Knowledge of state estimation techniques, such as Kalman filtering or particle filtering, and their applications in navigation.
• Experience with commercial GNC software tools (e.g., GNC libraries, flight simulators).

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity for career advancement and professional development
• Innovative and collaborative work environment
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holidays