Senior Guidance Navigation & Control for Space Applications

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 82,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. in Houston, TX, seeks a Senior Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineer to develop embedded software and GN&C algorithms for space and defense systems.

You will design, implement, and test real-time control software for complex environments across ground, air, and space domains. Required are a Bachelor's in aerospace/electrical engineering and 5–10 years of software experience; a Master’s/PhD is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace or related field is required; Master's/PhD preferred.
• 5–10 years of software engineering or related experience.
• Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, and C/C++ programming skills.
• Experience with GN&C flight software development and testing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate requirements and design solutions for GN&C systems.
• Design algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develop embedded software from prototype algorithms.
• Analyze designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develop and execute software tests to verify requirements.
• Communicate with customers and stakeholders; document outputs.

Skills

MATLAB

Simulink

Python

C/C++

Analytical skills

Communication skills

GNC algorithms

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Real-time software development tools

Graphical development environments

Job description

Overview

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary

The Senior Guidance Navigation and Control Engineer develops software for cutting‑edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced GN&C algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as ground, air, and space.

Job Description

Duties/Responsibilities

• Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
• Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
• Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
• Anlүzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
• Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
• Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficient or problems.
• Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
• Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
• Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities

• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of Autonomy and GNC algorithms and technology.
• Knowledge of real‑time software development tools.
• Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real‑time algorithms and software.
• Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
• Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems.
• Significant knowledge of design and implementation of trajectory design/optimization algorithms including optimal control techniques.
• Strong project execution and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to clearly communicate work assignments to team members.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.

Experience

Experience 5-10 years of Software Engineering or related experience is required.

Additional Job Description

The applicant will be technically involved in various stages in the life cycle of the project from preliminary mission/system design through mission operations. The applicant should have a strong background in rendezvous and proximity operations for space vehicles with specialties in one or more of the following technical disciplines:

Technical Disciplines

• Linear covariance analysis
• Rendezvous and prox-ops sensors characterization and performance analysis
• Rendezvous and prox-ops design and analysis
• Absolute and relative navigation using a variety of sensors
• Orbital dynamics and trajectory design
• Flight control design and stability analysis for space vehicle systems

Additional Qualifications

• GN&C flight software development and testing - preferably in graphical development environments
• GN&C system integration & test
• 6-DOF spacecraft dynamics modeling and simulation

Applicants selected for this position may be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

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Job Location - City: Houston

Job Location - State: Texas

Job Location - Postal Code: 77058-2900

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $82,300.00 - $220,000.00. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].

We are in the business of redefining what is possible. Join our inclusive, multidisciplinary team to engineer the groundbreaking solutions of tomorrow. Explore life at Draper with our unique culture and benefits at draper.com.