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Jobs · Information Technology · Texas

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

Axiom Space · Houston, TX · 2 days ago
Information TechnologyFull-time

Position Summary

We are looking for a resilient, high-energy, experienced Senior GNC Engineer with experience designing control systems for flight vehicles. The engineer will work in a fast-paced environment to contribute to the development of control systems across the program lifecycle for Axiom Space’s modules.

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.

Qualifications

  • 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.

  • Experience developing 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 JSC Engineering Orbital Mechanics (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, resourcefulness, adaptability.

  • 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.

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

  • Accountability

  • Sense of Urgency

  • Extreme Ownership

  • Execution and Delivery

  • Efficiency

  • Effectiveness

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.).

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