Senior GNC Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR GNC ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's US Headquarters in Long Beach CA the Senior GNC Engineer must demonstrate a firm grasp of spacecraft GNC concepts and applications. Work with all facets of the engineering life cycle: spacecraft concept and algorithm development, flight software implementation, subsystem requirements development, detailed GNC design, subsystem integration & test (I&T), and vehicle I&T. You will support the Space Systems Software organization to execute leading edge programs and products. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• GNC design, modeling, and analysis for a wide variety of spacecraft and space missions to include LEO, MEO, GEO, Lunar, Interplanetary, Reentry, and RPOD.
• Design of flight software, algorithms, and simulation product
• Development of spacecraft autonomy tools for constellation management
• GNC component selection and GNC subsystem design
• Test process development and execution
• Define fault detection and response
• Hardware-in-the-loop and monte carlo simulation
• Integration of flight and simulation software with modern analysis, test, and operations tools
• Support internal and external design reviews

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline
• 8+ years’ experience with C++ or similar object-oriented programming language
• 8+ years of aerospace design/development experience or similar
• Knowledge of GNC sensors and actuators
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or similar
• Proficiency in C++ or similar object-oriented programming language

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced degree in computer science, aerospace engineering or similar technical discipline
• Experience with the following:
  • STK or other space mission analysis tools
  • C++
  • Orbital Dynamics
  • Atmospheric Flight
  • Spacecraft operations
  • Spacecraft manufacturing
  • Rendezvous, proximity ops, and docking (RPOD)
  • Entry, decent, and landing
  • Lunar or Interplanetary missions
  • Atmospheric GNC
  • Flex, slosh, and multi-body modeling
  • State space and frequency domain analysis
  • STK, ODTK, Astrogator, or similar space mission analysis tools
  • Spacecraft operations
  • Spacecraft manufacturing

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits may also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base P