Principal GNC Engineer

Principal Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Location: El Segundo, California, USA
Salary: $165,000 - $215,000 per annum + bonus + equity + benefits
Sector: Space Systems / Aerospace Engineering

Alexander Associates are partnering with an innovative aerospace company developing next-generation spacecraft technologies. We are seeking an experienced Principal Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to lead the development of a first-of-its-kind spacecraft platform and play a critical role in shaping the future of space operations.

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of the complete GNC subsystem lifecycle, from concept development and architecture design through verification, flight software implementation, testing, launch support, and mission operations. The successful candidate will lead a high-performing team and drive the development of advanced spacecraft guidance, navigation, and control capabilities for a truly groundbreaking space platform.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a high-performing, multidisciplinary GNC engineering team
Architect and develop a novel GNC system for an advanced spacecraft platform
Own the full GNC subsystem development lifecycle from concept through flight operations
Define and manage GNC subsystem requirements and interface specifications
Design and implement advanced guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for flight software applications
Work closely with subcontractors and external partners to develop and integrate GNC hardware and software solutions
Perform component selection, trade studies, and hardware evaluations for GNC systems
Lead subsystem-level Verification & Validation (V&V) activities
Develop and execute Monte Carlo simulations, modelling, and performance analyses
Support and conduct Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) testing and system integration activities
Develop and contribute to mission operations and constellation management tools
Support internal and customer-facing technical reviews and programme milestones
Work closely with senior leadership to manage programme schedules, technical risks, and deliverables
Essential Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline
Minimum 5 years of Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) engineering experience
Experience supporting spacecraft and satellite development programmes
Experience across the full project lifecycle from concept development through operations
Experience developing and validating GNC algorithms and flight software
Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) testing experience
Experience working across multiple engineering disciplines to deliver complex systems
Customer-facing experience within commercial aerospace, defence, or government programmes
U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)
Ability to obtain and maintain a Government Security Clearance
Desirable Experience

Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
Experience with spacecraft flight software frameworks such as NASA cFS, F´ (F Prime), or similar architectures
Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) experience
Interface Control Document (ICD) development and management
Advanced spacecraft attitude determination and control systems (ADCS) expertise
Experience with mission analysis, simulation environments, and autonomous spacecraft operations
Strong leadership and team development experience
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
What's on Offer

Equity participation opportunities
Performance-based bonus scheme
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Generous holiday allowance and company holiday schedule
Health and wellness stipend
Commuter benefits
Opportunity to work on a pioneering spacecraft programme at the forefront of the commercial space sector
Significant technical ownership and leadership responsibility
Career progression within a rapidly growing aerospace organisation
If you are an experienced GNC Engineer looking to lead the development of next-generation spacecraft systems and contribute to truly innovative space missions, we would love to hear from you
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed