Senior GNC Engineer: Trajectory & Flight Systems Lead

Rocketlab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior GNC Engineer to own mission design, trajectory optimization, and GNC development across Electron and other programs. You will build GNC software, develop models, analyze flight data, and mentor the team to push the boundaries of spaceflight.

The role requires strong background in electronics, software, and aerospace, with a proven ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience developing in C/C++ including some embedded or high reliability development.
• 5+ years' experience developing in Python or MATLAB.
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships.

Responsibilities

• Trajectory design including optimization and Monte Carlo analysis as required for mission design.
• GNC system development including flight software, models, and data analysis.
• Mentor and support the GNC team alongside the Team Lead.
• Develop 3DOF/6DOF trajectories and verification for flight scenarios.
• Contribute to launch operations and HITL tasks to ensure mission success.

Skills

C/C++

Python

MATLAB

Embedded systems

Education

Bachelor, Masters or Ph.D. in Electronics, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

GMAT

STK

ASTOS

POST

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior GNC Engineer to own mission design, trajectory optimization, and GNC development across Electron and other programs. You will build GNC software, develop models, analyze flight data, and mentor the team to push the boundaries of spaceflight.

The role requires strong background in electronics, software, and aerospace, with a proven ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.