Senior Flight Systems Engineer - (SFSE081326.1)

Cimarron•Seal Beach, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Cimarron is seeking a Senior Flight Systems Engineer to rapidly prototype, develop, and field novel space and hypersonic capabilities. ESG delivers first-of-kind solutions for customers in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment, including the X-37B, the world’s first fully autonomous, reusable spaceplane. You will design GN&C algorithms, build high‑fidelity simulations, implement and test flight software, and support integration and flight test in both atmospheric and space. Must be able to work 100% onsite in Seal Beach, CA.

Requirements

Due to facility security requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for consideration at this time.
Ability to complete a pre-employment background check and drug screening, which will include, but is not limited to, testing for marijuana use.
This position requires access to federal facilities.
Candidates must possess a valid, unexpired Real ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued identification card at the time of hire.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance within a reasonable timeframe.
20 or more years of related work experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience (Ex. PhD, Master's + 3 or more years' related work experience).
Engineering experience with aircraft, missile, spacecraft, autonomous platform or similar vehicles.
Experience for on-orbit and ground systems operations.
Knowledge in astrodynamics/astrophysics and Guidance, Navigation, & Controls (GN&C).
Proficiency with MATLAB and Simulink.
Proficiency developing GN&C algorithms, models and simulations.
Experience developing with C/C++, Python or C#.
Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.

Nice To Haves

Degree in aerospace/aeronautical engineering (BS/MS/PhD).
10 or more years related technical experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Active Tier 5 (T5) Clearance, formerly known as Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) is Preferred.
Experience with spacecraft operations, space environment effects, or hypersonic re‑entry GN&C.
Familiarity with state estimation and sensor fusion (e.g., Kalman filters), GPS/INS, or air data systems.
Background in classical and modern control theory and nonlinear control design.
Model‑based development experience and flight test support.
Prior work on space or hypersonic programs.
Ability to work effectively in broad, minimally defined design spaces and to communicate technical results clearly.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and verify guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for spacecraft, re-entry vehicles, and hypersonic/airborne platforms.
Develop and maintain 6‑DOF dynamics simulations and associated analysis tools for mission and performance assessment.
Implement and validate GN&C flight software (MATLAB/Simulink models and C/C++ prototypes) and integrate with testbeds and avionics.
Apply astrodynamics and flight mechanics to mission design, novel orbit concepts, and trajectory optimization.
Apply aerodynamics, atmospheric flight mechanics, and controls knowledge to support the design of re-entry guidance, navigation, and flight control functions
Develop powered and unpowered guidance laws and autonomy tools for on‑orbit and atmospheric operations.
Support troubleshooting of operational anomalies, functional tests, and service incidents.
Produce concepts of operations, simulation artifacts, and test procedures to enable rapid iteration from prototype to flight test.
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (systems engineering, avionics, test, and business development) and communicate technical tradeoffs to stakeholders.
Independently identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and implement reusable tools and automations.