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Guidance, Navigation, & Controls (GNC) Simulation Engineer Verified today

Axiom Space · Houston, TX · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
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About Axiom Space

Axiom Space is building the world's first commercial space station, Axiom Station, serving as a cornerstone for sustained human presence in space. The company leads commercial human spaceflight services to the International Space Station and develops advanced spacesuits for the Moon and low-Earth orbit.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced GNC Engineer to contribute to GNC simulation development and analysis across the program lifecycle for Axiom Space's modules. You will work in a fast-paced environment, collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams, and apply system-level understanding to complex design challenges. The position is based onsite at our Space Station Development Facility (SSDF) in Houston.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, analyze, and implement GNC algorithms and simulations for aerospace vehicles
  • Maintain and develop analysis tools, regression test scenarios, Monte Carlo framework, and simulation architecture
  • Perform 6-DOF modeling, simulation, and performance analysis to evaluate system behavior under nominal and off-nominal conditions
  • Build high-fidelity dynamic models of vehicles, sensors, actuators, and environmental models
  • Conduct Monte Carlo analyses and sensitivity studies to validate robustness and reliability
  • Validate simulation models against test data and engineering expectations
  • Use C/C++, Python, and Matlab to develop simulations
  • Collaborate with embedded software teams to integrate, test, and verify GNC functionality on hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems
  • Support development of requirements, interface definitions, and verification plans for flight software
  • Plan and execute verification and validation activities, including unit tests, SIL/HIL testing, and integrated system tests
  • Analyze flight test or mission data to assess GNC performance and identify improvement areas
  • Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for anomalies observed during testing or operations
  • Work with hardware teams to define performance requirements and ensure compatibility with GNC architecture
  • Contribute to system-level design reviews, requirements development, and architecture decisions
  • Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, structures, and mission operations teams to ensure GNC solutions align with overall vehicle design
  • Provide technical leadership on sub-projects, mentor junior engineers, and support design trade studies
  • Prepare technical reports, design documentation, test plans, and analysis summaries for internal and external stakeholders
  • Present findings at design reviews, customer meetings, and cross-disciplinary engineering forums
  • Ensure compliance with aerospace standards, safety requirements, and certification processes
  • Communicate project progress, status, and potential issues to stakeholders and leadership
  • Implement and maintain agile project management methodologies throughout the project lifecycle

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related technical degree
  • 4-9 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience developing 6-DOF Monte Carlo simulations of aerospace vehicles
  • Proficient with C++, Matlab, and/or Python coding languages
  • Development experience in a Linux environment
  • Experience with Software/Hardware in the Loop development, analysis, and test
  • Experience validating simulation models (e.g., sensor/actuator models)
  • Broad understanding of GNC technology domains
  • Git CI/CD and pipeline development/maintenance
  • Track record of delivering outcomes in ambiguous, fast-moving environments
  • Proven ability to deliver high-quality results under tight deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with NASA's Trick simulation framework
  • Experience with JSC Engineering Orbital Mechanics (JEOD)

Required Competencies

  • Accountability
  • Sense of Urgency
  • Extreme Ownership
  • Execution and Delivery
  • Efficiency and Effectiveness
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • High emotional intelligence and cross-functional collaboration ability

Employment Requirements

  • Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency is required
  • Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones

Work Environment

Generally an office environment at the Space Station Development Facility. May involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time). May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time). Standard office equipment provided.