Zone 5 Technologies Logo

Zone 5 Technologies

Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer V/VI

Posted 17 Days Ago
Be an Early Applicant
In-Office
San Luis Obispo, CA
197K-265K Annually
Expert/Leader
In-Office
San Luis Obispo, CA
197K-265K Annually
Expert/Leader
Lead design, development, and optimization of advanced GNC systems for Group 1–4 UAS. Architect flight controls software, develop Matlab/Simulink models and auto-code generation, run SWIL/HWIL simulations, perform stability and controls analysis, mentor junior engineers, drive cross-functional R&D and flight test efforts, and produce technical documentation.
The summary above was generated by AI

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.

Similar Jobs

8 Minutes Ago
In-Office
143K-215K Annually
Mid level
143K-215K Annually
Mid level
Artificial Intelligence • Big Data • Cloud • Information Technology • Software • Cybersecurity • Data Privacy
Support Renewals Operations through analytics, reporting, and forecasting; analyze renewal workflows and quoting; ensure data quality across CRM and renewal systems; partner cross-functionally to improve processes, implement system enhancements, and support strategic GTM initiatives to maximize ARR retention.
Top Skills: ApttusClariDealhubExcelGoogle SheetsPythonSalesforce CpqSalesforceSQLTableau
8 Minutes Ago
Easy Apply
Hybrid
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Easy Apply
Mid level
Mid level
Artificial Intelligence • Big Data • Cloud • Security • Software • Cybersecurity • Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Hunt and close net-new commercial and mid-market accounts for Nasuni's cloud-native file data and hybrid cloud storage platform. Build and manage pipeline, qualify opportunities, engage channel and cloud partners, use Salesforce for forecasting, and collaborate with internal teams to meet quota and drive measurable new-logo revenue.
Top Skills: Ai-Enabled ToolsAWSGCPLinkedInAzureNasuni File Data PlatformSalesforce
8 Minutes Ago
Easy Apply
In-Office
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Easy Apply
96K-120K Annually
Mid level
96K-120K Annually
Mid level
Digital Media • eCommerce • Information Technology • Marketing Tech • Pet • Retail • Social Media
The Manager of Training & Agent Development oversees the design and delivery of training programs, ensuring agents are equipped with technical skills, brand knowledge, and sales techniques to enhance customer experience and loyalty.
Top Skills: Adobe CaptivateArticulate 360CanvaLmsSalesforce Service Cloud

What you need to know about the Los Angeles Tech Scene

Los Angeles is a global leader in entertainment, so it’s no surprise that many of the biggest players in streaming, digital media and game development call the city home. But the city boasts plenty of non-entertainment innovation as well, with tech companies spanning verticals like AI, fintech, e-commerce and biotech. With major universities like Caltech, UCLA, USC and the nearby UC Irvine, the city has a steady supply of top-flight tech and engineering talent — not counting the graduates flocking to Los Angeles from across the world to enjoy its beaches, culture and year-round temperate climate.

Key Facts About Los Angeles Tech

  • Number of Tech Workers: 375,800; 5.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
  • Major Tech Employers: Snap, Netflix, SpaceX, Disney, Google
  • Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, adtech, media, software, game development
  • Funding Landscape: $11.6 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
  • Notable Investors: Strong Ventures, Fifth Wall, Upfront Ventures, Mucker Capital, Kittyhawk Ventures
  • Research Centers and Universities: California Institute of Technology, UCLA, University of Southern California, UC Irvine, Pepperdine, California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Center for Quantum Science and Engineering

Sign up now Access later

Create Free Account

Please log in or sign up to report this job.

Create Free Account