Guidance, Navigation and Control Engineer I

Sierra Space•Centennial, CO

5d•$80,630 - $110,866

About The Position

Sierra Space is seeking a Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer I to support the development and analysis of spacecraft systems. This entry-level role is ideal for talented individuals passionate about applying engineering principles to create innovative solutions in guidance, navigation, and control (GNC). The selected candidate will work on tasks involving control systems, orbital mechanics, and simulations under the guidance of senior engineers and technical leads. This position offers the opportunity to grow technical expertise in GNC systems while contributing to cutting-edge aerospace projects. In this role, you will assist in the design, analysis, and implementation of GNC algorithms, including classical control design and Kalman filtering. You will support GNC mode transition analysis and performance evaluations for spacecraft systems, as well as perform Monte Carlo simulations to quantify system performance and ensure compliance with requirements. Additionally, you will develop MATLAB scripts and models to analyze GNC subsystems and integrate simulations with SIMULINK and STK tools. You will analyze and interpret data from GNC sensors such as IMUs and GPS, collaborate with team members to integrate GNC flight software (FSW), and conduct hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) simulations. Furthermore, you will document results, provide technical reports, and communicate findings to the team and stakeholders, while estimating workloads and prioritizing day-to-day tasking under the direction of technical leads.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
0–2 years of relevant engineering experience (including academic projects, internships, or research).
Foundational knowledge of statics, dynamics, control systems, and orbital mechanics.
Proficiency in MATLAB programming and familiarity with SIMULINK, STK, and version control tools such as GIT/SVN.
Basic understanding of GNC sensors like IMUs and GPS and their operating principles.
The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required
U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with academic or professional projects involving Kalman filtering and classical control design.
Familiarity with Monte Carlo simulation techniques and GNC mode transitions analysis.
Understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including power, thermal, communication, jitter, and structures.
Ability to integrate GNC flight software and conduct HITL simulations.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret performance requirements and perform relevant analysis.
Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

Assist in the design, analysis, and implementation of GNC algorithms, including classical control design and Kalman filtering.
Support GNC mode transition analysis and performance evaluations for spacecraft systems.
Perform Monte Carlo simulations to quantify system performance and ensure compliance with requirements.
Develop MATLAB scripts and models to analyze GNC subsystems and integrate simulations with SIMULINK and STK tools.
Analyze and interpret data from GNC sensors such as IMUs and GPS.
Collaborate with team members to integrate GNC flight software (FSW).
Conduct hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) simulations.
Document results, provide technical reports, and communicate findings to the team and stakeholders.
Estimate workloads and prioritizing day-to-day tasking under the direction of technical leads.