Principal GNC Engineer

Principal GNC Engineer | Spacecraft Systems | Los Angeles

InnoForge is partnering with a US space technology company developing next-generation spacecraft systems designed to transform how missions are delivered and operated in orbit.

We're looking for a Principal Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to take technical ownership of a new spacecraft GNC architecture, leading its development from initial concept through to integration, testing and flight operations.

This is a senior, hands-on technical leadership position offering significant responsibility for subsystem architecture, engineering decisions and delivery.

You'll work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams developing complex spacecraft hardware and software, helping bring a new space platform from development into operational use.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead the development and delivery of the spacecraft GNC subsystem, including architecture, requirements, interfaces and technical milestones.
• Design, develop and implement GNC algorithms for integration with flight software.
• Lead technical trade studies, hardware selection and integration of GNC components.
• Develop simulation environments and conduct Monte Carlo analysis to evaluate system performance.
• Lead hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, verification and validation activities.
• Take ownership of GNC performance throughout the spacecraft development lifecycle.
• Work closely with flight software, systems engineering, integration and test teams.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to other GNC engineers.
• Support design reviews, technical discussions and engagement with external engineering partners.
• Contribute to tools and systems supporting spacecraft mission operations.

What We're Looking For

• 7+ years of experience developing spacecraft or satellite GNC systems.
• Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Strong experience with spacecraft GNC algorithm development, modelling and simulation.
• Experience taking GNC systems through design, integration, verification and testing.
• Hands-on experience with Monte Carlo simulations and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Understanding of spacecraft hardware, flight software and subsystem interfaces.
• Experience supporting spacecraft development across multiple lifecycle stages.
• Ability to lead technical decisions while remaining closely involved in engineering delivery.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance.

If you're an experienced spacecraft GNC engineer looking for greater technical ownership and the opportunity to help develop a new generation of space systems, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.

Apply through InnoForge or get in touch to learn more.