Senior Gnc Engineer

About Astro DigitalAstro Digital designs, builds, and operates a diverse range of small satellite systems supporting space-based turnkey missions for several business applications, including earth observation, communications, in-orbit demonstrations, risk reduction, science, and exploration. Astro Digital is headquartered in Littleton, Colorado with 100+ employees and infrastructure around the globe.Position SummaryWe're looking for an experienced Senior Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to take ownership of the analysis that makes our spacecraft fly. You'll drive high-fidelity simulation, performance evaluation, and system-level analysis of GNC systems—and roll up your sleeves to shape flight software in C++.From large deployable structures and laser communications to high-precision astrophysics observations, in-space robotics, constellations, and rendezvous & proximity operations, you'll get your hands on the full spectrum of cutting-edge spacecraft missions.Your analysis will directly steer Systems Engineering on mission design and CONOPS, along with the actuator and sensor performance requirements that define what's possible. Proficiency in C++ and Python is essential—you'll help build and maintain the modeling, simulation, and analysis tool stack that we use to design these missions.This is a remote-friendly role, open to US-based candidates.Primary Duties & ResponsibilitiesBuild high-fidelity models and simulations of spacecraft GNC systems and prove them out across every mission phaseConduct Monte Carlo analyses, covariance studies, and performance assessments to validate GNC algorithms before they flyCreate and evolve the simulation and analysis tools we use to design missions and flight software components that implement themAnalyze sensor and actuator performance, including propulsion subsystems, star trackers, IMUs, reaction wheels, and GNSSWrite and refine C++ flight software GNC components and flight software configurationSupport verification and validation of flight software through unit testing and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulationsCollaborate with systems engineering, mission design, and flight software teams to ensure GNC performance meets mission requirementsDocument analysis results, software interfaces, and validation proceduresMinimum QualificationsU.S. person status required (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) to comply with ITAR/EAR export-control regulationsBachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field5+ years of hands-on experience in spacecraft GNC analysis and simulationStrong understanding of spacecraft dynamics, control systems, and estimation techniques (e.g., Kalman filtering)Proficiency in C++ and pythonExperience developing Monte Carlo simulations and numerical analysis toolsExcellent analytical, communication, and technical documentation skillsStrong attention to detail and accuracyAbility to work independently and as part of a teamPreferred QualificationsMaster's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldStrong controls foundation through advanced coursework, research, or control law designHands-on work with commercial flight software frameworks (e.g., GNC-capable satellite flight software stacks)On-orbit operations experience, including early-orbit commissioning and anomaly responseTrack record of developing flight software for space missionsFamiliarity with spacecraft polarity/phasing and other GNC-related testingDirect exposure with rendezvous & proximity operations (RPO)Experience creating analysis frameworks and models from scratch, not just operating existing toolsProven ability to communicate and coordinate independently across systems engineering, flight software, and mission design teamsFamiliarity with Linux development environments and version control systems (e.g., Git)Pay TransparencyAstro Digital employees are provided with a comprehensive benefits package that includes company stock options, healthcare, 401k retirement plan, and PTO. The range of possible compensation for this role is $150k-$190k annually, depending on candidate experience, alignment, and location.Physical DemandsThis position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 20 Lbs. Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching may be required.Export StatementThis position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, or protected person status under 22 CFR §120.15 and 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3) is required.