Lead Spacecraft Guidance Systems Engineer

2 days ago


Long Beach, California, United States Rocket Lab Full time
About the Role

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems, enabling some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally. Our rockets and satellites support scientific exploration, Earth observation, and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

We have provided reliable access to orbit since 2018 with our Electron rocket, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Our next rocket, Neutron, will be 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.

This role requires a Senior Guidance, Navigation and Controls (GNC) Engineer II who can demonstrate a firm grasp of spacecraft GNC concepts and applications. Responsibilities include 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.

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 productDevelopment of spacecraft autonomy tools for constellation managementGNC component selection and GNC subsystem designTest process development and executionDefine fault detection and responseHardware-in-the-loop and monte carlo simulationIntegration of flight and simulation software with modern analysis, test, and operations toolsSupport internal and external design reviews

Key Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace engineering or other technical discipline
  • 8+ years' experience with C++ or similar object-oriented programming language
  • 8+ years of aerospace design/development experience or similarKnowledge of GNC sensors and actuatorsProficiency in MATLAB, Python, or similarProficiency in C++ or similar object-oriented programming language
Compensation and Benefits

A competitive base salary of $120,000 - $160,000 per year, plus company equity and access to a robust benefits package including:

  • Top-tier medical HMO, PPO, and 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option
  • Dental and vision coverage
  • Three weeks paid vacation and five days sick leave per year
  • Eleven paid holidays per year
  • Flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts
  • Paid parental leave
  • Disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match


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