Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer III (Clearance Required) Verified today

Sierra Space · 2 Locations · Space Systems · first seen 2026-08-05

About the role

Sierra Space is seeking a Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer III to lead the design, development, and validation of advanced GNC systems for spacecraft applications.

In this role, you will:

Design and implement closed-loop integrated GNC and FDIR subsystems
Develop high-fidelity models for GNC sensors and actuators including IMUs, GPS, LIDAR, and Air Data Systems
Set up and execute Monte Carlo simulations with noise profiles, unmodeled dynamics, and erroneous dynamics to evaluate system performance
Perform open-loop and closed-loop stability analyses to ensure robust system design
Own multiple GNC modes for flight phases with detailed algorithm design and validation
Integrate requirements into detailed GNC algorithm designs to ensure compliance with system-level objectives
Implement relevant design standards and processes across GNC systems and subsystems
Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within the team

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related technical field (or equivalent work experience). Master's degree preferred for candidates with 3+ years of experience.
5+ years of related experience in dynamic modelling and GNC algorithm design
Advanced skills in SIMULINK, State Flow, Python, and C++ programming, with experience in SIMULINK auto coding and Linux/UNIX operating systems
Strong understanding of IMUs, GPS, LIDAR, and Air Data Systems, with experience developing high-fidelity models for algorithm design
Active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance required
U.S. Citizenship required for security clearance eligibility

Preferred Qualifications

In-depth knowledge of GNC algorithms with control theory, including linear and nonlinear controls, stability margins, sensitivity analysis, optimization, and Linear and Extended Kalman filtering
In-depth understanding of complex relationships among guidance, navigation, control, and FDIR algorithms
Experience estimating workload for long-term tasking, including quarterly and yearly planning
Experience with open-loop and closed-loop stability analysis and autonomous GNC mode transitions
Level 1 STK certification and ability to implement relevant design standards and processes
Experience in HITL testing and validation processes
Ability to develop integrated and bench-level closed-loop tests for system validation
Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems including power and thermal constraints, communication viewing, and Control Structure Interaction model analysis
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and ability to independently identify root causes and propose solutions

Compensation

Pay Range: $129,776.00 to $178,441.25

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

Benefits

Sierra Space offers a generous benefit package including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, and 3 weeks paid time off.