Senior GNC Engineer

Turion Space

Satellite Guidance, Navigation, and Controls Engineer designing algorithms for satellite missions in Irvine, CA. Collaborating with engineering teams and mentoring junior engineers in advanced GNC processes.

Posted 6/1/2026full-timeIrvine • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $150,000 - $213,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

PythonTypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

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 current 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.
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

What you’ll need

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
Proficient 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
Ability 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.
Proven track record in developing and implementing advanced GNC algorithms and control systems for space missions
Demonstrated experience with modeling and simulation tools for GNC analysis and validation
Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills with a track record of solving complex challenges in GNC engineering
Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and/or test GNC algorithms from the ground up

Benefits

Comp & perks

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.
Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan 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.
Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing 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.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

C++PythonMATLABGNC algorithmscontrol systemstrajectory optimizationorbit determinationmodeling & simulationGNC testinghardware-in-the-loop testing

Soft Skills

communicationteamworkproactiveself-motivatedadaptableanalytical skillsproblem-solvingmentorshipcollaborationleadership

Certifications

Ph.D.MSBSSecret clearanceTS/SCI clearance