GNC Engineer, Principal

Position Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, development and validation of guidance, navigation, and control systems for current and new products.
• Develops C++ software to implement GNC algorithms, interface with ground control station (GCS) software, and integrate with various payloads.
• Supports the development of ground control station (GCS) software for Android.
• Troubleshoots technical issues with aircraft and payloads.
• Interfaces with 3rd party vendors to integrate new payloads onto the platform.
• Works with the Chief Engineer and Product Line Manager to develop requirements for new projects.
• Works with the test team to perform bench testing and flight testing.
• Works with management to plan new projects and evaluate new opportunities.
• Works with customers to provide advanced technical support and training.
• Develops user manuals and other technical documentation.
• Provides guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

  Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

  • Advanced degree in a related engineering discipline is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
  • 10-15+ years' of combined experience in aircraft design and/or project management, GNC, software development, flight testing, systems engineering and program management.
  • Proficiency in C++ software development.
  • Experience working with headless embedded Linux devices.
  • Demonstrated hands-on attitude with a broad range of development experience.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of engineering disciplines and prior experience leading the development of many of these systems for manned or unmanned air vehicles: Autopilot hardware and software; Flight control hardware and software; Part 23 & part 27 aircraft certification; Ground control communications hardware and software; Ground control support equipment; Air vehicle subsystems integration & test; Air vehicle systems communications hardware and software; High voltage electrical power systems.
  • Travel within the continental U.S. is required to support flight test operations (up to 20%).

    Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

    • Vision based navigation or adjacent skills experience.
    • Experience with Android App development.
    • Experience implementing or using electronic communication protocols such as TCP/IP, RS232, CAN, LIN, SPI, I2C, and UART.
    • Demonstrates knowledge of office software and computer based productivity tools.
    • Expertise in appropriate design and simulation tools and validation techniques.
    • Strong communication (verbal & written), presentation and collaboration skills.
    • Prominent leader who has demonstrated people development and leadership skills.
    • Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties.
    • Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives.
    • Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products.
    • Committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company.
    • Effective problem-solving, analytical and interpersonal skills with the ability to work well across disciplines.
    • Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests.

      Physical Demands

      • Ability to work in an office and R&D environment (Constant).
      • Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent).

      Clearance Level

      No Clearance

      Salary Range For This Role Is

      $133,500 - $203,750

      ITAR Requirement

      This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15.

      Benefits

      • AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

      About AV

      AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.