Senior GNC & Controls Architect for Spacecraft

Pulse Space; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Pulse Space is seeking a Principal GNC / Controls Architect to lead the design and development of estimation, navigation, and control algorithms for next-generation spacecraft and satellite constellations. The role focuses on precision pointing, real-time control, and system-level modeling, enabling high-performance spacecraft operation in demanding environments.

You will mentor engineers and collaborate across avionics, FPGA, and software teams.

Qualifications

• MS degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in spacecraft GNC or related fields.
• Strong expertise in linear systems, control theory, estimation, and dynamic modeling.
• Experience building simulation environments for spacecraft and multi-satellite systems.
• Proven experience with real-time GNC implementation and sensor integration.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze estimation and flight control algorithms for spacecraft attitude and translational dynamics.
• Develop and maintain high-fidelity models and simulations of spacecraft and constellations for system-level performance evaluation.
• Design and implement real-time GNC algorithms for angular and translational navigation using onboard sensors.
• Develop and apply optimal state estimation techniques (e.g., Kalman filters) for robust navigation and control.
• Lead trade studies and architecture decisions for control systems and estimation strategies.

Skills

Linear systems

Control theory

Estimation techniques

Kalman filters

Real-time implementation

Simulation/modeling

System-level design

Leadership/mentorship

GNC architectures

Inter-satellite coordination

Education

MS degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or related field

PhD in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

HIL simulation

FPGA

Real-time hardware integration

Job description

Pulse Space is seeking a Principal GNC / Controls Architect to lead the design and development of estimation, navigation, and control algorithms for next-generation spacecraft and satellite constellations. The role focuses on precision pointing, real-time control, and system-level modeling, enabling high-performance spacecraft operation in demanding environments.

You will mentor engineers and collaborate across avionics, FPGA, and software teams.