GNC Engineer Internship

United States, California, San Luis Obispo

Mar 04, 2026

WORK LOCATION:

San Luis Obispo, CA

FLSA STATUS:
Non-Exempt

SALARY RANGE:
The anticipated salary range for this role is $26 per hour. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate's qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

The selected candidate will be expected to commit to a full time schedule for a minimum of 8 weeks throughout the summer.

The Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineering Intern will support the senior engineers in executing specific projects related to GNC of the Stalker aircraft. The internship is designed to provide hands‑on experience aligned with the intern's academic focus and RDT's strategic objectives. This is a great opportunity to contribute to real‑world projects that have a significant impact on a fielded system.

This internship offers aspiring engineers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, enhancing their skills and preparing them for future careers in the aerospace and defense sectors.

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Gain insight into the daily responsibilities of GNC engineers at RDT.
• Perform data analysis on vehicle autopilot and sensor logs.
• Develop algorithms and software to support GNC systems.
• Support flight testing activities, gaining practical experience in unmanned aircraft systems.
• Participate in an engineering project from conception (problem statement) to completion (delivery of design, documentation, etc).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members.

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Mechanical, Software, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with an interest in aerospace and defense applications.
• Demonstrated coursework and/or projects in dynamics, control, and estimation.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with a readiness to collaborate in a dynamic environment.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot electrical and design‑related issues effectively.

• Proficient in MATLAB and C/C++.
• Experience using gitlab/bitbucket version control.
• Experience analyzing aircraft flight data and tuning control laws.
• Knowledge of aircraft aerodynamics.
• Coursework and/or hands‑on experience in estimation (Kalman filters, complementary filters, factor graphs).
• Experience with computer vision systems and algorithms.

• Paid PTO

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person's status under the ITAR and the EAR.

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone.

Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an "At-Will" basis.