Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Position Overview:

As a GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer at Starcloud, you will own the ADCS of our in-orbit data centers. You will be instrumental in developing algorithms, simulations, and tools, demanding an innovative and highly skilled individual with a strong foundation in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, and software development. You will be responsible for selecting ADCS architectures, creating and maintaining production code, performing detailed performance analysis, and supporting on-call operations to ensure our satellite network operates at peak efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Algorithm and Software Development:
  • Develop and implement high-reliability and high-performance GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, and dashboards
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews to ensure high-quality software solutions.
  • Conduct comprehensive data analysis to review performance metrics from various elements of the satellite constellation and network.
  • Produce detailed technical documentation for programs, algorithms, and analytical methods.
• System Integration and Support:
  • Support on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites, and reviewing network data to maintain optimal network performance.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance GNC system performance and ensure seamless integration.
• Optimization and Analysis:
  • Perform constellation design and optimization, fleet management, satellite orbit transfer automation, and collision avoidance.
  • Conduct constellation-level and network-level analysis of both existing and proposed satellite systems.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Experience in developing, debugging, and deploying software for spacecraft GNC
• Deep understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering discipline or Physics
• Proven experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance through simulation and validating simulation models.
• Expertise in state estimation, particularly in attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation.
• Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods such as Alfano, Foster, and Hall.
• Comprehensive knowledge of spacecraft flight disciplines, including structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, startup environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Compensation and Benefits:

Annual salary: 

L1: $120,000 - $155,000

L2: $145,000 - $195,000

Starcloud offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Stock options, discretionary bonuses, and other long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and paid parental leave.
• Generous paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.