GNC Simulation Lead

Position

GNC Simulation Lead

Broomfield, CO

Full-time, On-site

At Karman+, we’re building spacecraft systems that must operate reliably in harsh environments. Our ability to design and test guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems depends on high‑fidelity simulations that capture the complex interactions between spacecraft, environment, and control algorithms.

• Design, implement, and maintain 6‑DoF spacecraft simulations including dynamics, sensor models, control responses, and environment effects.
• Develop Monte Carlo pipelines, sequencers, and visualization tools to evaluate vehicle cont rollability and performance.
• Support flight software integration by implementing, testing, and validating GNC algorithms in simulation environments.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams to evaluate design trades and their impact on vehicle cont rollability and stability.
• Ensure simulation verification and validation against analytical models and test data.
• Present analysis results and make clear recommendations on vehicle design and mission concepts.
• Contribute to CI/CD and automation pipelines for simulation and test workflows.
• Collaborate with external partners, academia, and customers on simulation requirements and outcomes.
• Lead Karman+ trade study on developing an in‑house GNC simulation framework versus implementing a 3rd‑party solution.

• BS or MS in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Strong programming experience in C++ and Python.
• Experience building or using high‑fidelity simulation frameworks for aerospace systems.
• Knowledge of orbital mechanics, dynamics modeling, and spacecraft GNC principles.
• Comfort working in both Linux and Windows development environments.
• Experience with software version control (e.g., git) and collaborative software practices.
• Ability to analyze simulation results, synthesize conclusions, and communicate clearly to technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strong teamwork, adaptability, and ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Experience validating simulation models against real hardware performance (sensors, actuators, or flight dynamics).

• Experience with NASA or aerospace simulation frameworks (e.g., Trick, JEOD, VERAS, Basilisk, or DARTS).
• Hands‑on experience with spacecraft avionics or GNC hardware and how they interact with simulation frameworks.
• Familiarity with numerical methods for ODEs, optimization routines, or uncertainty quantification.
• Hands‑on experience integrating simulations with flight hardware through HIL testing, sensor emulators, or actuator rigs.
• Experience with control system design and stability analysis.
• Familiarity with Docker, CI/CD pipelines, or cloud‑based deployment for scalable simulations.
• Background in advanced controls, rendezvous and proximity operations, or trajectory design.
• Familiarity with networking protocols, computer architectures, and software development best practices.

Targeted cash compensation: $130,000 – $180,000 annually in Broomfield, CO. Final offer varies based on candidate experience and expertise.

• Equity incentives.
• Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.
• Basic life insurance.
• 401(k) plan.
• Unlimited paid time off.

Occasional travel to work sites; overnight stays may be required for training, seminars, conferences, or meetings.

This job posting is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities. Karman+ reserves the right to change or assign additional duties at any time.

Karman+ is a proud equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans.