Senior GNC Engineer

About the role

Turion Space is seeking a talented Satellite Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer to join our team on a hybrid basis in Irvine, CA.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement advanced GNC algorithms and control systems for cutting-edge Rendezvous and Proximity Operation (RPO) missions.
• Conduct simulations, perform hardware-in-the-loop testing, and guide on-orbit testing to validate and verify GNC algorithms and control systems.
• Conduct mission analysis, trajectory optimization, and orbit determination to ensure mission objectives are met.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of GNC subsystems with other systems.
• Analyze and optimize system performance, including stability, robustness, and response time.
• Support commissioning of satellites on-orbit and support our Droid.002 platform which is currently in Low Earth Orbit.
• Drive the continuous improvement of GNC processes, methodologies, and best practices, and share knowledge with the engineering team.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements and research in GNC engineering for small satellite systems.
• In Addition, a Senior GNC Engineer Will Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers, fostering their growth and development in GNC engineering.
• Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making regarding technical direction and future advancements in GNC for satellite missions.
• Maintain technical ownership over a functional area of the GNC team, such as embedded flight code processes.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior GNC engineers within the team.
• Lead technical trade studies for GNC design decisions.
• Identify and resolve GNC technical risks.

Requirements

• Ph.D., MS with 1-2 years of experience, or BS with 2-4 years of experience, in an engineering discipline with a focus on control systems, orbital mechanics, or similar field.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB for algorithm development and simulation.
• Technical competency in at least one major aspect of GNC engineering, such as guidance, navigation, controls, modeling & simulation, or GNC testing.
• Familiarity with sensors used in satellite guidance and navigation, such as star trackers, sun sensors, and GPS, at a senior level.
• Profound communication and teamwork abilities, with the capability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment.
• Able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance.
• Experience and expertise in guidance, navigation, and control principles and their application to satellite systems.
• Technical understanding of all aspects of GNC understanding, and expertise in at least one functional area.
• Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and/or test GNC algorithms from the ground up.

Qualifications

• Experience with polarity and performance testing of GNC sensors and actuators.
• Experience in designing and/or prototyping space systems software.
• Experience with Hardware-in-the-loop and Software-in-the-loop testing.
• Experience with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO).
• Experience with low thrust trajectories and spacecraft with propulsion systems.
• Knowledge of orbital mechanics, trajectory optimization, and mission analysis.
• Experience implementing optimization algorithms.
• Experience with mission operations: investigation of on-orbit anomalies, working with mission operations, or working directly on the ops floor during a mission.

Senior GNC Engineer

$150,000 - $213,000

Pay

$150,000 - $213,000

Schedule

Hybrid

Benefits

• Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
• Retail Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan with a 3% Employer Direct Contribution to help you plan for your future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.
• Parental Leave: Paid parental leave following the birth of a newborn or adoption.
• Emotional Wellbeing: A no-cost Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your household’s emotional health and wellbeing.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing internal training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
• Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment.