GNC Engineer III

AeroVironment • Princeton, CA

1d

About The Position

We are searching for a talented Sr. Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to play a critical role in developing next-generation unmanned air vehicles and robotic systems. As a key member of our innovative team, you will help architect flight algorithms, conduct advanced flight testing, and integrate cutting-edge technologies into real-world solutions. This high-impact role leverages your multi-disciplinary expertise. You’ll lead and contribute to ambitious projects spanning GN&C (60%), flight testing (20%), and supporting disciplines such as embedded software (20%). You'll guide teams, solve complex technical challenges, and directly influence the development of groundbreaking platforms.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering. Master’s degree in engineering is strongly desired
• 4+ years of progressive experience in GN&C, aircraft design, flight testing, project management, or closely related fields.
• Exceptional hands-on engineering ability and a proven track record across multiple technical domains (autopilots, flight control, communications hardware/software, UAV integration).
• Deep knowledge in classical and modern controls design, system analysis in both frequency domain and state space.
• Familiarity with robotic dynamics, aided inertial navigation, and simulation tools (Monte Carlo, hardware-in-the-loop, 6DOF).
• Ability to thrive and deliver in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where innovation is expected—and celebrated.
• Demonstrated initiative, ownership of technical outcomes, and a relentless drive for continuous improvement.
• ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction.
• Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with both Fixed wing and Multi-rotor vehicles is a plus.
• Familiar with office software and computer-based productivity tools.
• Demonstrated competence in engineering processes and design tools
• Knowledge of appropriate design and simulation tools and validation techniques
• Demonstrates strong communication (verbal & written), presentation and collaboration skills
• Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
• Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
• Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
• Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
• Demonstrates effective problem-solving, analytical and interpersonal skills with the ability to work well across disciplines.
• Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests
• Experience with target tracking, Autonomy/machine learning and ROS is a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and documentation of advanced GN&C solutions for unmanned systems.
• Characterize, test, and troubleshoot hardware and software subsystems related to control systems.
• Develop and maintain Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-In-the-Loop (SIL) Simulations
• Analyze systems and flight test data, supporting model improvements and root cause analyses.
• Develop and maintain data reduction and analysis tools that drive actionable insights from robot and UAV test data.
• Perform linear & non-linear control algorithm development to ensure world-class stability and performance.
• Drive GN&C requirements development, design reviews, and technical proposal creation.
• Mentor and support team members as a technical expert and occasionally serve as Team Lead across small, agile teams.
• Support integration of reusable GN&C and software components into new products.
• Travel up to 20% within the continental U.S. to support on-site flight operations.

Benefits

• AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees