Senior GNC Orbit Controls Engineer: Precision Nav

Xona; Burlingame (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Xona is seeking a Sr. GNC Orbit Controls Engineer in California to design algorithms for orbit determination and maneuver execution. You'll develop closed-loop controllers, validate orbit determination pipelines using EKF/UKF, and manage electric propulsion. Ideal candidates will have strong skills in orbital mechanics and experience in C/C++ software development. A Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related field is required. Join us in creating cutting-edge navigation technology.

Qualifications

• Strong in orbital mechanics and simulation, implemented onboard propagators.
• Built production guidance, control, or navigation software in C and C++.
• Designed RAAN and LTAN control strategies in open-loop and closed-loop forms.
• Executed or supported real maneuvers, reconciling plan versus truth.
• Comfortable at the ADCS and propulsion interface for burn pointing.

Responsibilities

• Develop controllers for RAAN and LTAN control, altitude management, and station-keeping.
• Implement onboard orbit propagators and ensure numerical consistency.
• Build and validate orbit determination pipelines.
• Design burns and optimize delta V and timelines.
• Plan and execute electric-propulsion long burns.

Skills

Orbital mechanics

C/C++ software development

MATLAB and Simulink

Guidance and control strategies

Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Job description

Xona is seeking a Sr. GNC Orbit Controls Engineer in California to design algorithms for orbit determination and maneuver execution. You'll develop closed-loop controllers, validate orbit determination pipelines using EKF/UKF, and manage electric propulsion. Ideal candidates will have strong skills in orbital mechanics and experience in C/C++ software development. A Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related field is required. Join us in creating cutting-edge navigation technology.