Terrain Relative Navigation Engineer (ES4)
About The Position
The Amentum Space Exploration Division (ASED) Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) team executes critical work for NASA’s SLS, HLS, Artemis, and related programs. We are seeking a Senior Terrain Relative Navigation (TRN) Engineer to architect and lead high-fidelity image rendering, sensor modeling, and TRN simulation capabilities for lunar and planetary missions. This senior role drives the configuration and performance optimization of Terragen and Unreal Engine rendering pipelines for efficient in-the-loop GN&C simulation, advanced lighting map generation (Lunar DEMs and albedo maps), pre-rendered lighting techniques, and camera model fidelity. Deep experience in lidar-based TRN/HDA algorithm development, high-fidelity multi-sensor modeling, 6-DOF simulation frameworks, and navigation filter implementation is highly valued and will enable leadership across the full TRN and GN&C simulation lifecycle.
Requirements
- Must be a US Citizen and have a STAR IC.
- Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautics & Astronautics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field from an ABET-accredited institution (Master’s or PhD preferred).
- Significant, demonstrated experience leading or contributing to Terrain Relative Navigation (TRN), lidar-based TRN, optical navigation, and/or HDA systems, including modeling of motion-compensated lidar scans and algorithm iteration.
- Extensive experience developing high-fidelity sensor models (lidar, laser altimeter, IMU, star tracker) and integrating them into 6-DOF simulation environments for lunar lander applications.
- Expert-level proficiency in Python, C/C++, and MATLAB/Simulink; strong background in software & simulation integration and modeling & simulation.
- Proven track record supporting flight-critical lunar lander GN&C development (CLPS, HLS, or equivalent), including Monte Carlo analysis and navigation filter work.
Nice To Haves
- Publications on lidar-based Terrain Relative Navigation or visual odometry.
- Experience with Terragen, Unreal Engine, GIS products, Lunar DEMs, albedo maps, lighting models, and camera simulation pipelines.
- Advanced navigation filter design (EKF, SDINS, multi-body gravity, state-replacement architectures).
- Leadership in integrated customer/contractor teams, technical mentoring, and delivery of conference-quality technical products.
- Linux, Git, excellent communication, and a demonstrated ability to rapidly master and apply advanced GN&C concepts.
Responsibilities
- Architect and lead improvements to the TRN camera image rendering and simulation pipeline (Terragen / Unreal Engine).
- Design, configure, and optimize rendering pipelines for high-efficiency in-the-loop GN&C simulation; oversee lighting map generation and pre-rendered lighting strategies.
- Provide technical leadership on high-fidelity lidar, laser altimeter, IMU, and star tracker sensor modeling and on lidar-based TRN / HDA algorithm development, analysis, and validation (including motion-compensated terrain scans and CONOPs trades).
- Lead 6-DOF simulation framework development, Monte Carlo analysis, navigation filter implementation, and GN&C/flight software integration.
- Guide software development and optimization (Python, C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink); mentor junior engineers.
- Direct verification, validation, independent technical assessments, documentation, and high-level briefings.
- Interface with GN&C leads, NASA stakeholders, and multi-discipline teams.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
- Educational reimbursement
- Parental leave
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Tax-saving options
- Disability and life insurance
- Pet insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
