Senior GNC Engineer: Rocket Guidance & Control

Astra Space Inc; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Astra Space Inc is seeking a SeniorGNC Engineer to join a small team that develops the control, estimation, and guidance algorithms for rockets. You will work across teams to ensure rockets are designed, tested, and capable of launching and deploying payloads to target orbits.

You will develop GNC algorithms and trajectories, analyze flight data, and refine controllers to meet requirements. The role involves testing across Simulink, hardware-in-the-loop, and engine test cells, supporting mission

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in aerospace vehicle GNC development and simulation.
• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, mathematics or equivalent.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and C++ or Python.
• Experience building controllers for rockets, drones, or robots.
• Experience implementing software interfaces and interpreting Interface Control Documents.

Responsibilities

• Develop: create GNC algorithms, simulation models, and trajectories.
• Analyze: verify system performance using ground test and flight data.
• Refine: tune controllers and guidance algorithms to meet GNC requirements.
• Test: build test automation across Simulink, hardware-in-the-loop, engine test cells, and integrated vehicles.
• Fly: support launch from mission control and fulfill GNC responsibilities during countdown.

Skills

GNC development

Simulation

C++

Python

Rocket controllers

Interpreting ICInterfaces

Education

Advanced degree in engineering/physics/mathematics

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Job description

Astra Space Inc is seeking a SeniorGNC Engineer to join a small team that develops the control, estimation, and guidance algorithms for rockets. You will work across teams to ensure rockets are designed, tested, and capable of launching and deploying payloads to target orbits.

You will develop GNC algorithms and trajectories, analyze flight data, and refine controllers to meet requirements. The role involves testing across Simulink, hardware-in-the-loop, and engine test cells, supporting mission