Senior Flight Systems Engineer

Position Introduction/Key Duties

Cimarron is seeking a Senior Flight Systems Engineer to rapidly prototype, develop, and field novel space and hypersonic capabilities. ESG delivers first‑of‑kind solutions for customers in a fast‑paced, multidisciplinary environment, including the X‑37B, the world’s first fully autonomous, reusable space plane. You will design GN&C algorithms, build high‑fidelity simulations, implement and test flight software, and support integration and flight test in both atmospheric and space.

Must be able to work 100% onsite in Seal Beach, CA.

• Design, implement, and verify guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for spacecraft, re-entry vehicles, and hypersonic/airborne platforms.
• Develop and maintain 6‑DOF dynamics simulations and associated analysis tools for mission and performance assessment.
• Implement and validate GN&C flight software (MATLAB/Simulink models and C/C++ prototypes) and integrate with testbeds and avionics.
• Apply astrodynamics and flight mechanics to mission design, novel orbit concepts, and trajectory optimization.
• Apply aerodynamics, atmospheric flight mechanics, and controls knowledge to support the design of re‑entry guidance, navigation, and flight control functions
• Develop powered and unpowered guidance laws and autonomy tools for on‑orbit and atmospheric operations.
• Support troubleshooting of operational anomalies, functional tests, and service incidents.
• Produce concepts of operations, simulation artifacts, and test procedures to enable rapid iteration from prototype to flight test.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (systems engineering, avionics, test, and business development) and communicate technical tradeoffs to stakeholders.
• Independently identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and implement reusable tools and automations.

• Due to facility security requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for consideration at this time.
• Ability to complete a pre-employment background check and drug screening, which will include, but is not limited to, testing for marijuana use.
• This position requires access to federal facilities. Candidates must possess a valid, unexpired Real
  -compliant driver's license or state‑issued identification card at the time of hire. If you are unsure whether your  Real
  -compliant, please check for the star symbol in the upper portion of your driver's license or state .
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance within a reasonable timeframe.
• 20 or more years of related work experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience (Ex. PhD, Master's + 3 or more years' related work experience).
• Engineering experience with aircraft, missile, spacecraft, autonomous platform or similar vehicles.
• Experience for on‑orbit and ground systems operations.
• Knowledge in astrodynamics/astrophysics and Guidance, Navigation, & Controls (GN&C).
• Proficiency with MATLAB and Simulink.
• Proficiency developing GN&C algorithms, models and simulations.
• Experience developing with C/C++, Python or C#.
• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.

• Degree in aerospace/aeronautical engineering (BS/MS/PhD).
• 10 or more years related technical experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Active Tier 5 (T5) Clearance, formerly known as Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) is Preferred.
• Experience with spacecraft operations, space environment effects, or hypersonic re‑entry GN&C.
• Familiarity with state estimation and sensor fusion (e.g., Kalman filters), GPS/INS, or air data systems.
• Background in classical and modern control theory and nonlinear control design.
• Model‑based development experience and flight test support.
• Prior work on space or hypersonic programs.
• Ability to work effectively in broad, minimally defined design spaces and to communicate technical results…