Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI

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San Luis Obispo, CaliforniaPosted Today

Role Overview

Zone5technologies is hiring a staff-level Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI. This is a full-time role in San Luis Obispo, California. posted today. applications are still in the early window, before most candidates have applied. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

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Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

The GNC Engineer V/VI is a senior-level individual contributor role responsible for leading the design, development, and optimization of advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems for UAS. This position involves driving innovation in flight controls software, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating across disciplines to deliver cutting-edge UAS technologies. Engineers in this role will contribute to strategic initiatives, ensure high performance in flight control systems, and lead efforts from concept to flight testing.

Responsibilities:

Technical Leadership: Lead the design, analysis, and development of flight controls software for Group 1 to 4 UAS.
Software Development: Architect and implement advanced software components for deployment to flight tests.
Simulation Expertise: Oversee the creation and execution of high-fidelity SWIL and HWIL simulations to validate system performance.
Advanced Modeling: Develop and refine complex models in Matlab/Simulink, ensuring accuracy and performance optimization.
Controls Analysis: Perform advanced stability and performance analyses, providing guidance on control system optimization.
Mentorship: Mentor and train junior engineers, fostering technical growth and team collaboration.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Drive effective communication and alignment across engineering disciplines to meet project objectives.
Innovation and R&D: Lead research initiatives in advanced flight control methodologies, embedded systems, and auto-code generation.
Documentation and Review: Produce comprehensive technical documentation and lead peer review processes to ensure quality and compliance.

Qualifications:

Education: Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience: 10+ years of experience in flight controls engineering, with at least 5 years in UAS applications.
Skills:
- Expertise in Matlab/Simulink and auto-code generation for embedded systems.
- Advanced knowledge of control theory, flight dynamics, and embedded systems.
- Experienced in state estimation and Kalman filtering.
- Proven ability to run and analyze SWIL and HWIL simulations.
- Strong leadership and project management skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills.
- Familiarity with Group 1-4 UAS flight controls and avionics suites.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
- Knowledge of advanced control techniques and optimization algorithms.
- History of contributing to successful flight test programs and R&D projects.

Pay Range by Level for San Luis Obispo, CA:

Level V - $197,000 - $226,000

Level VI - $226,000 - $265,000

#LI-AW1

Pay range for this role

$197,000—$265,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

Competitive total compensation package
Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
401k with company-match
4 weeks of paid time off each year
12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

About Zone5technologies

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI position at Zone5technologies?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Zone5technologies. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI position at Zone5technologies located?

This position is based in San Luis Obispo, California. Zone5technologies has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI at Zone5technologies earn?

Zone5technologies has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI role at Zone5technologies posted?

This role was posted on July 9, 2026 (today). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.