Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early) Verified today

About the Role

Join a closely integrated team designing the GNC system (hardware and software) for Apex's commercial satellite buses. You will drive clean sheet design, inform coupled trades across vehicle architecture, and own the position, attitude, knowledge and stability requirements of the bus. This role reports directly to the Director of Spacecraft.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement GNC algorithms for satellite systems, including attitude determination and control, orbit determination and control, and precision pointing.
• Conduct analysis of spacecraft dynamics and perform simulations to evaluate system performance, stability, and accuracy.
• Design, develop, and test spacecraft control systems, including reaction wheels, thrusters, and magnetic torquers, to achieve desired mission objectives.
• Collaborate with spacecraft and payload engineers to define system requirements and ensure GNC system compatibility and integration.
• Perform trade studies and make recommendations for optimal GNC configurations, considering factors such as power consumption, mass, and cost.
• Develop and execute test plans and procedures for GNC systems, including system-level testing, performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.
• Analyze and interpret spacecraft telemetry data to diagnose and troubleshoot GNC-related anomalies and performance issues.
• Collaborate with software engineers to develop GNC software modules and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with overall satellite systems.
• Develop GNC algorithm and subsystem tests and validation criteria for functional and performance verification.
• Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, system engineers, and operations personnel.
• Stay up-to-date with industry advancements and emerging technologies in GNC systems and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 1+ years of professional experience as a GNC Engineer, preferably in the satellite or aerospace industry.
• Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.
• Experience in programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, Python with experience in numerical simulation and analysis.
• Familiarity with GNC hardware and software components, such as sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, star trackers), actuators, and control algorithms.
• Experience with simulation tools and software packages commonly used in spacecraft GNC engineering (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK).
• Knowledge of industry standards and protocols for satellite GNC systems, such as CCSDS, ECSS, and GPS/GNSS.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex system dynamics and propose effective solutions.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.
• Attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data. Applicants must either qualify as a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or individual granted asylum) or be able to obtain required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, Department of Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agency.

What We Offer (Full-time Employees)

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Generous 401(k) matching: 100% on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave, plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
• Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
• Complete desk setup and tools for productivity
• In-person collaboration at Playa Vista office with work-life integration flexibility

About Apex

Apex manufactures commercial satellite buses at scale using software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable earth observation, communications, and more. We are a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding and invest heavily in our people from day one.