Senior GNC Engineer

SR2 | Socially Responsible Recruitment | Certified B Corporation™

San Francisco (CA)

On-site

USD 200,000 - 350,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Equity options

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

A pioneering UAV startup is seeking a highly skilled Aerospace/GNC Engineer to lead complex guidance, navigation, and control systems projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in UAVs and a strong educational background, with leadership skills to mentor junior engineers. This role offers competitive compensation and an opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment in San Francisco.

Qualifications

Master’s or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
Strong experience in UAVs, aerospace, or related GNC systems.
Proven leadership in complex engineering projects.

Responsibilities

Lead development and implementation of UAV guidance, navigation, and control systems.
Design and validate flight algorithms for autonomous UAVs.
Integrate sensors and software systems for optimized flight performance.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

C++

Job description

Base pay range: $200,000.00/yr - $350,000.00/yr

About the Opportunity

We are partnering with a cutting‑edge UAV startup with offices in San Francisco and Austin. They are seeking a highly skilled Aerospace/GNC Engineer to lead a pivotal project, shaping the next generation of autonomous flight systems. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of complex guidance, navigation, and control systems in a fast‑moving, innovative environment.

Role Overview

The Lead Aerospace/GNC Engineer will drive the design and implementation of advanced UAV guidance, navigation, and control systems. You will collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including software, hardware, and operations, to deliver robust, high‑performance autonomous flight solutions. This role demands strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and a track record of delivering complex engineering projects.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of UAV guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems.
Design and validate flight algorithms and control strategies for autonomous UAVs.
Integrate sensors, actuators, and software systems to optimize flight performance.
Conduct simulations, modeling, and analysis to ensure UAV stability, efficiency, and safety.
Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership across projects.
Contribute to technical documentation, project planning, and milestone tracking.

Qualifications

Master’s or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred.
Strong professional experience in UAVs, aerospace, robotics, or related GNC systems.
Proven experience leading complex engineering projects from concept to deployment.
Deep understanding of flight dynamics, control theory, sensor fusion, and autonomous systems.
Proficiency with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C++, or equivalent tools.
Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and leadership skills.
Startup mindset: adaptable, resourceful, and comfortable in a fast‑paced environment.

Preferred

Hands‑on experience with UAV hardware, embedded systems, or real‑time flight control software.
Experience integrating AI/ML into autonomous flight systems.

Why This Role