Guidance Navigation & Control Engineer

SAIC•Denver, CO

21h•Onsite

About The Position

SAIC’s National Security and Space Sector seeks a Guidance Navigation & Control Engineer to provide mission-critical engineering and analytical solutions for joint Intelligence Community and Department of Defense space programs. The role is based at a secure facility in Aurora, Colorado, and involves working with U.S. Government civilians and contractors on space and counter-space initiatives. The engineer supports satellite mission planning and performance assessment through optical and trajectory analysis, orbital and sensor modeling, access assessments, and satellite communications analysis. The role also develops and maintains interface control documentation, supports system integration and testing, coordinates interface working groups, and prepares acquisition and technical requirements materials for government decision-making. The position requires collaboration with program offices, contractors, government counterparts, and technical subject matter experts, as well as adapting to changing requirements and deadlines.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering, or mathematics.
At least 9 years of direct experience with the space segment of Intelligence Community or Department of Defense programs; the posting states “9 or more with a Masters.”
Professional experience in mission analysis, satellite communications, or a related technical field, with progressive responsibility in leadership or team coordination.
Active Top Secret clearance and ability to obtain TS/SCI with polygraph.
Familiarity with satellite mission operations and orbital mechanics.
Experience with orbit and sensor modeling and access assessments using Systems Tool Kit (STK).
Effective communication and presentation skills, including presenting complex technical information to diverse stakeholder groups.
Familiarity with National Security Space architecture in the Intelligence Community and/or Department of Defense.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent work experience.
Experience in a satellite development factory or space system program office, particularly with Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit systems.
In-depth knowledge of optical payloads, including telescope systems, sensors, and imaging technologies.
Understanding of Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) techniques.
Working knowledge of radar and/or optical technologies.
Strong understanding of satellite communications principles, including link budget analysis, signal-to-noise ratio, and RF propagation.
Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for modeling, simulation, and analysis.
Problem-solving skills, analytical expertise, and innovative thinking.
Proactive communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
Ability to translate complex technical requirements into actionable solutions.
Dedication to mission success and adaptability to dynamic requirements and tight deadlines.
Commitment to continuous learning and technical excellence.

Responsibilities

Lead rapid optical and trajectory analysis for satellite systems to support mission planning and performance assessments.
Use Systems Tool Kit (STK), provided access constraints, and simple sensor modeling to analyze and assess mission requirements.
Develop and maintain Satellite Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for spacecraft, ground systems, payloads, and cross-system interfaces.
Develop tools, scripts, and automated workflows using Python or MATLAB to improve analysis efficiency.
Maintain understanding of U.S. Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities and counter threats.
Build productive relationships with program offices, prime and subcontractors, and functional Intelligence Community or Department of Defense counterparts and subject matter experts.
Execute satellite communications link budgets, optimizing signal-to-noise ratio, interference, and power allocations.
Identify and mitigate interface risks and drive technical issue resolution across engineering teams.
Support system integration and test activities by providing authoritative documentation and clarification.
Manage Interface Control Working Groups (ICWGs) and maintain consistent stakeholder communication.
Develop acquisition and technical requirements briefings, plans, and documentation for government decision-making.
Promote continuous learning and adoption of new tools, technologies, and practices.