Guidance, Navigation and Control Engineer

Sierra Space Careers:

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

Sierra Space is seeking a Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer I to support the development and analysis of spacecraft systems. This entry-level role is ideal for talented individuals passionate about applying engineering principles to create innovative solutions in guidance, navigation, and control (GNC). The selected candidate will work on tasks involving control systems, orbital mechanics, and simulations under the guidance of senior engineers and technical leads.

This position offers the opportunity to grow technical expertise in GNC systems while contributing to cutting‑edge aerospace projects.

In this role, you will assist in the design, analysis, and implementation of GNC algorithms, including classical control design and Kalman filtering. You will support GNC mode‑transition analysis and performance evaluations for spacecraft systems, as well as perform Monte Carlo simulations to quantify system performance and ensure compliance with requirements. Additionally, you will develop MATLAB scripts and models to analyze GNC subsystems and integrate simulations with SIMULINK and STK tools.

You will analyze and interpret data from GNC sensors such as IMUs and GPS, collaborate with team members to integrate GNC flight software (FSW), and conduct hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) simulations. Furthermore, you will document results, provide technical reports, and communicate findings to the team and stakeholders, while estimating workloads and prioritizing day‑to‑day tasking under the direction of technical leads.

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space‑based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission.

We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree).
• 0-2 years of relevant engineering experience (including academic projects, internships, or research).
• Foundational knowledge of statics, dynamics, control systems, and orbital mechanics.
• Proficiency in MATLAB programming and familiarity with SIMULINK, STK, and version control tools such as GIT/SVN.
• Basic understanding of GNC sensors like IMUs and GPS and their operating principles.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required.

• Experience with academic or professional projects involving Kalman filtering and classical control design.
• Familiarity with Monte Carlo simulation techniques and GNC mode‑transition analysis.
• Understanding of spacecraft subsystems, including power, thermal, communication, jitter, and structures.
• Ability to integrate GNC flight software and conduct HITL simulations.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret performance requirements and perform relevant analysis.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

$80,630.00 - $

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,…