GNC Engineer V​/VI

Location

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States

Zone 5 Technologies is redefining what’s possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting‑edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology to solve complex challenges that matter.

The GNC Engineer V/VI is a senior‑level individual contributor responsible for leading the design, development, and optimization of advanced guidance, navigation, and control systems for UAS. This role involves driving innovation in flight controls software, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating across disciplines to deliver cutting‑edge UAS technologies.

• Lead the design, analysis, and development of flight controls software for Group 1 to 4 UAS.
• Architect and implement advanced software components for deployment to flight tests.
• Oversee the creation and execution of high‑fidelity SWIL and HWIL simulations to validate system performance.
• Develop and refine complex models in Matlab/Simulink, ensuring accuracy and performance optimization.
• Perform advanced stability and performance analyses, providing guidance on control system optimization.
• Mentor and train junior engineers, fostering technical growth and team collaboration.
• Drive effective communication and alignment across engineering disciplines to meet project objectives.
• Lead research initiatives in advanced flight control methodologies, embedded systems, and auto‑code generation.
• Produce comprehensive technical documentation and lead peer review processes to ensure quality and compliance.

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in flight controls engineering, with at least 5 years in UAS applications.
• Expertise in Matlab/Simulink and auto‑code generation for embedded systems.
• Advanced knowledge of control theory, flight dynamics, and embedded systems.
• Experienced in state estimation and Kalman filtering.
• Proven ability to run and analyze SWIL and HWIL simulations.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Familiarity with Group 1‑4 UAS flight controls and avionics suites.

• Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Knowledge of advanced control techniques and optimization algorithms.
• History of contributing to successful flight test programs and R&D projects.

$170,000 – $220,000 USD

• Comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401(k) with company match.
• 4 weeks paid time off annually.
• 12 company holidays per year.

• Innovative environment: work on cutting‑edge technology shaping defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative culture: join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing boundaries.
• Career growth: opportunities for professional development and advancement.

Note:

Texas roles will initially be remote; on‑site work will commence when the mid‑west location opens in 2026.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under any applicable law. All eligible applicants will be considered equally.

All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Zone 5 Technologies participates in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be part of a dynamic, growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!