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Sr Principal Engineer, Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO), Guidance, Navigation & Control, Lead Verified today

Sierra Space · 2 Locations · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-09
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About the Role

Sierra Space is seeking a Sr Principal Guidance, Navigation & Control Engineer to lead the development, integration, and innovation of advanced GNC systems for spacecraft applications. This senior role requires extensive expertise across all aspects of GNC algorithmic design, autonomy, and system architecture.

You will:

  • Drive program execution towards achieving key GNC milestones while serving as both lead and individual contributor across multiple programs
  • Own end-to-end design of Guidance, Navigation, and Control systems on various programs
  • Formulate GNC design, development, and testing architecture and processes for new programs, focusing on flexibility, adaptability, and reliability
  • Architect GNC sensor, avionics, and actuator frameworks in conjunction with Flight Software Command & Data Handling
  • Provide input to Assembly, Integration, and Test planning as a GNC expert on test configurations
  • Perform sensor and actuator selection and sizing based on program requirements using relevant design tools
  • Conduct Hardware-in-the-Loop unit and integrated testing to verify GNC subsystem performance
  • Lead end-to-end efforts in Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and docking activities including mission planning, trajectory optimization, system integration, and operational execution
  • Train and guide GNC engineers for career development

About You

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience (Master's degree plus 13+ years experience accepted in lieu)
  • 15+ years of related experience
  • Extensive expertise in multiple programming languages and software development principles
  • Ability to design, architect, and implement complex software systems
  • Strong leadership skills to lead a team of engineers
  • Ability to make high-level design decisions and drive strategic direction of engineering teams
  • Demonstrated project leadership, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication with nontechnical stakeholders
  • Ability to architect and oversee technical aspects of large-scale projects, innovate, and evaluate adoption of new technologies and methodologies
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance (required; U.S. citizenship required)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience developing conceptual interfacing frameworks for sensors and actuators with avionics
  • Experience with advanced optimization-based simulation techniques using adaptive and predictive control algorithms
  • Ability to explain complex design concepts, subsystem relationships, and internal GNC interactions; develop high-level roadmap program documentation
  • Establish and understand complex relationships between different subsystem requirements and GNC
  • Experience with formal tasking and delegation to track progress; share in-depth subject matter knowledge with the team

Compensation

Pay Range: $206,107.00 - $283,397.50

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

Sierra Space offers a generous benefit package including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, and 3 weeks paid time off.