GNC Engineer – Autonomous Systems

Syos Aerospace; Tauranga; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

At SYOS Aerospace, we’re not here to do things the way they’ve always been done. We’re building the next generation of autonomous systems across air, land, and sea - turning ambitious ideas into technology that works in the real world.

About the role

As a GNC Engineer, you’ll help develop the intelligence behind SYOS’ autonomous vehicles - taking equations and algorithms from simulation and modelling through to embedded implementation, testing, and real-world deployment. Work alongside a great team to solve complex problems and see your work bring vehicles to life across air, land, and sea.

What you’ll do

• Design, develop, and implement GNC algorithms for autonomous UAV, UGV, and USV platforms.
• Develop guidance, navigation, control, and state-estimation solutions for real-world autonomous systems.
• Model and simulate GNC systems to predict performance, identify issues, and optimise designs.
• Develop and implement sensor fusion and state estimation using technologies such as GPS, IMU, LiDAR, and vision.
• Tune and calibrate control systems to achieve reliable and precise vehicle performance.
• Work closely with software and systems engineers to integrate GNC algorithms into embedded architectures.
• Develop and execute testing and validation strategies across simulation, HIL, and physical platforms.
• Analyse flight and vehicle test data, identify anomalies, and troubleshoot GNC performance issues.
• Continuously improve algorithms and system performance based on testing and operational feedback.
• Document GNC designs, algorithms, test results, and engineering decisions.

What you’ll bring

• A Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 2+ years’ experience in GNC, controls, robotics, aerospace, or autonomous systems.
• Experience developing or working with GNC algorithms on autonomous platforms.
• Strong understanding of control theory, state estimation, and sensor fusion.
• Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink for modelling, simulation, and analysis.
• Experience with real-time embedded systems and/or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• A practical, hands-on approach to engineering and testing.
• The ability to work collaboratively across software, electrical, mechanical, and systems disciplines.

The SYOS Way

We’re growing fast, taking on bigger challenges, and building technology that matters. At SYOS, you won’t be sitting on the sidelines. You’ll be solving real problems, challenging ideas, and seeing your work make an impact - all from sunny, beachside Mount Maunganui.

Work. Build. Innovate. Get Results. Surf. Repeat.

The SYOS Mindset

We’re a team of innovators, engineers, and problem-solvers who believe that great ideas can come from anyone. The best answer wins - regardless of title or experience. We’re not looking for people who just want another job. We’re looking for people who want to be part of the story.

Come build with us. Challenge us. Grow with us.