GNC Engineer, Phased Array Devices (Starshield) Verified today
About the role
Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. As a GNC engineer on this team, you will design and develop guidance, navigation and control algorithms for Starshield user terminals that connect ground users to the space-based network.
Your responsibilities
- Design and analysis of GNC logic for Starshield phased array antennas
- Real-time angular and translational navigation using onboard sensors and optimal state estimation techniques
- Design of beam-steering logic to track and hand-off satellites while maximizing link integrity in challenging operational environments
- Development of GNSS-independent PNT (position, navigation, and timing) algorithms
- Design and implementation for high-velocity/high-maneuverability platforms
- Model derivation and high-fidelity simulation for development and validation of prototype features
- Implementation, validation, unit testing, and deployment of production software (C++) for GNC systems
- Engineering and data review support for hardware development and customer support
- Collaboration with hardware engineers on design and specification of user terminal products and navigation sensor packages
Basic qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science/software engineering, or an engineering discipline
- Software development experience in C++, Python, and/or MATLAB/Simulink
- Experience with attitude determination and/or state estimation algorithms
Preferred skills and experience
- Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
- Professional or project experience in state estimation, feedback control, robotics, antenna design and actuation, or similar fields
- Direct experience with inertial navigation systems, GNSS, and phased array antenna systems
- Experience with translational state estimation without GNSS ranging and timing information
- Experience with loosely/tightly coupled state estimation
- Linux development experience
- Strong understanding of classical dynamics, modeling and simulation, and software development
- Ability to identify and solve complex problems independently
- Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance, or ability to obtain and maintain one
Working conditions
- Must be able to work extended hours and weekends as needed to support critical path development and on-orbit operations
- Active clearance holders will be subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing
Compensation and benefits
Pay Range:
- Level 1: $125,000 to $160,000
- Level 2: $145,000 to $195,000
Actual level and base salary determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is part of your total rewards package. You may be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage; 401(k) retirement plan; short and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; paid parental leave; 3 weeks of paid vacation; 10 or more paid holidays per year; and paid sick leave. Those with an active clearance receive a 10% differential, up to an additional $20,000 annually, once officially briefed into a classified program.
ITAR requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.