Senior GNC Engineer

Turion Space is seeking a talented and experienced Senior Satellite Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer to join our team in Irvine, CA. As a Senior GNC Engineer, you will play a key leadership role in the design, development, and implementation of guidance, navigation, and control systems for our satellite missions. You will work closely with the mission design and flight software team to design and implement mission profiles and algorithms. You will have the opportunity to lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the overall technical strategy of our satellite programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced GNC algorithms and control systems for small satellite missions.

• Conduct mission analysis, trajectory optimization, and orbit determination to ensure mission objectives are met.

• Oversee the integration of guidance and navigation sensors, including star trackers, sun sensors, and GPS receivers, into the satellite platform.

• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of GNC systems with other subsystems.

• Analyze and optimize system performance, including stability, robustness, and response time, while providing expert guidance to the team.

• Conduct simulations and testing to validate and verify GNC algorithms and control systems.

• 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 and provide thought leadership to the team.

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. with 1+ years of experience, MS with 3+ years of experience, or BS with 5+ years of experience, in an engineering discipline with a focus on control systems, orbital mechanics, or similar field

• Extensive experience and expertise in guidance, navigation, and control principles and their application to satellite systems

• Proven track record in developing and implementing advanced GNC algorithms and control systems for space missions

• Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or Matlab for algorithm development and simulation

• Strong familiarity with sensors used in satellite guidance and navigation, such as star trackers, sun sensors, and GPS, at a senior level

• 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

• Proficient communication and teamwork abilities, with the capability to effectively lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams

• Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment

• Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and/or test GNC algorithms from the ground up

• Ability to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Previous experience in a senior-level or leadership role in GNC engineering is highly desirable

• Experience with polarity and performance testing of GNC sensors and actuators

• Experience in designing and/or prototyping space systems software

• Hardware-in-the-loop and Software-in-the-loop testing experience

• Experience with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations and Docking (RPOD)

• Experience with low thrust trajectories and spacecraft with ΔV propulsion systems

• Deep knowledge of orbital mechanics, trajectory optimization, and mission analysis, with the ability to guide and mentor others in these areas.

• Experience implementing optimization algorithms

• Mission operations experience

ITAR Requirements:

This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:​

• 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, 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. ​

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.

Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.