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Spacecraft GNC Engineer

Join Apex Space as a senior Spacecraft GNC Engineer to innovate and design GNC systems for commercial spacecraft.

Location
Los Angeles
Compensation
Not disclosed
Level
senior
Type
full time

Posted by employer 2 weeks ago

First seen on Joblaze 1 month ago

Last verified on the company career page 3 hours ago

Apply at Apex Space → Save job Scanned from apexspace.com

Requirements

Experience
3+ years
Education
Bachelor's degree
Visa
Sponsorship available

Not disclosed in this posting: compensation, work arrangement.

Benefits

401k Match Unlimited PTO Equity/Stock Options Health Insurance Parental Leave

Joblaze summary

The Spacecraft GNC Engineer at Apex Space is responsible for designing and implementing guidance, navigation, and control systems for satellite buses, focusing on algorithms for attitude and orbit control. This role requires expertise in spacecraft dynamics, control theory, and proficiency in programming languages like C/C++ and Python, along with experience in simulation tools. Ideal candidates have at least three years of relevant experience in aerospace or satellite engineering and possess strong analytical and collaborative skills. Apex, a rapidly growing startup, emphasizes innovation and teamwork in a dynamic environment.

Joblaze insights

  • Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on Apex Space's careers page October 27, 2026.
  • Python appears in 16.7% of 2567 comparable senior other roles in United States; Orbital Mechanics appears in 0.1% of 2567 comparable senior other roles in United States.

Quick facts

How much experience is required?
At least 3 years of relevant experience for this Spacecraft GNC Engineer role.
What's the tech stack?
Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: C, C++, Control Theory, GNC, MATLAB, Orbital Mechanics.
Does Apex Space sponsor work visas for this role?
Yes — the posting indicates visa sponsorship is available for the right candidate.
What seniority level is this role?
Apex Space targets senior candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?
Full-time for this Spacecraft GNC Engineer role at Apex Space.

From the original posting

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Spacecraft GNC Engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position, attitude, knowledge and stability requirements of our bus. You will have an opportunity to approach this from a clean sheet design and inform coupled trades across the vehicle architecture. You will be innovative in your approach to push the limits of design and performance, while disrupting and making an impact on the industry. This role reports directly into the Director of Spacecraft.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement GNC algorithms for satellite systems, including attitude determination and control, orbit determination and control, and precision pointing.

  • Conduct analysis of spacecraft dynamics and perform simulations to evaluate system performance, stability, and accuracy.

  • Design, develop, and test spacecraft control systems, including reaction wheels, thrusters, and magnetic torquers, to achieve desired mission objectives.

  • Collaborate with spacecraft and payload engineers to define system requirements and ensure GNC system compatibility and integration.

  • Perform trade studies and make recommendations for optimal GNC configurations, considering factors such as power consumption, mass, and cost.

  • Develop and execute test plans and procedures for GNC systems, including system-level testing, performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.

  • Analyze and interpret spacecraft telemetry data to diagnose and troubleshoot GNC-related anomalies and performance issues.

  • Collaborate with software engineers to develop GNC software modules and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with overall satellite systems.

  • Stay up-to-date with industry advancements and emerging technologies in GNC systems, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

  • Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, system engineers, and operations personnel.

  • Develop GNC algorithm and subsystem tests and validation criteria for functional and performance verification.

Requirements:

  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

  • 3+ years of professional experience as a GNC Engineer, preferably in the satellite or aerospace industry.

  • Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, Python with experience in numerical simulation and analysis.

  • Familiarity with GNC hardware and software components, such as sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, star trackers), actuators, and control algorithms.

  • Experience with simulation tools and software packages commonly used in spacecraft GNC engineering (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK).

  • Knowledge of industry standards and protocols for satellite GNC systems, such as CCSDS, ECSS, and GPS/GNSS.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex system dynamics and propose effective solutions.

  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

  • Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.

  • Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.

#LI-HC1

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

  • Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

Standard company text repeated across Apex Space's postings is omitted here.

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