Remote Optical Navigation Engineer for Deep-Space Missions

RiseMe; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Intuitive Machines seeks an Optical Navigation Engineer to join our Flight Dynamics team supporting interplanetary missions. You will develop ground-based and on-board optical navigation systems, perform simulations, calibration, and validation, and work with partners to define mission requirements.

The role requires strong Python/C/C++ skills, Linux experience, and familiarity with navigation toolkits. Remote work options are available, with travel for critical operations as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 2–5+ years of experience or Master’s with 0–2+ years in related field.
• Expertise in optical navigation including celestial/terrain-relative navigation.
• Strong Python/C/C++ programming and software engineering practices.
• Experience with Linux, git, and Python package management (Conda/mamba).
• Familiarity with OpenCV, NASA GIANT API, and cFS framework is a plus.
• Interest in deep-space navigation and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Develop and test optical navigation systems for ground and on-board use.
• Perform modeling, simulations, and flight validation for nav software.
• Coordinate analyses with mission partners and engineers.
• Prepare technical reports and software documentation for the team.
• Contribute to project planning, cost estimates, and schedules.

Skills

Optical navigation

Celestial navigation

Terrain-relative navigation

Computer vision

AI/ML

Python

C/C++

Numerical optimization

Probability & statistics

Attitude dynamics

Linux

Git

Conda/mamba

OpenCV

NASA GIANT API

cFS framework

Unreal Engine / Vulkan

HWIL/SWIL testing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

Linux

Git

Conda/mamba

OpenCV

GIANT API

cFS

Unreal Engine

Vulkan

Job description

Intuitive Machines seeks an Optical Navigation Engineer to join our Flight Dynamics team supporting interplanetary missions. You will develop ground-based and on-board optical navigation systems, perform simulations, calibration, and validation, and work with partners to define mission requirements.

The role requires strong Python/C/C++ skills, Linux experience, and familiarity with navigation toolkits. Remote work options are available, with travel for critical operations as needed.