GNC Engineer, Attitude Control Systems (Aerospace)

TL;DR

GNC Engineer, Attitude Control Systems (Aerospace): Develops attitude control systems for precise spacecraft pointing, maneuvering, and momentum management with an accent on control algorithms that operate across real mission conditions. Focus on high-fidelity simulation through software- and hardware-in-the-loop validation.

Location: On-site in Burlingame, California. Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. Green Card holder), or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Salary: $170,000 – $200,000

Company

Xona is the navigational intelligence company bringing real-time, centimeter-level certainty to any device, anywhere on Earth.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain 6DOF attitude simulations for ACS design and verification.
• Design, tune, and validate PID, LQR, and optimal control algorithms.
• Develop actuator allocation logic for reaction wheels, torque rods, thrusters, or other effectors.
• Implement momentum management and desaturation algorithms.
• Support model-based development, integration, and test workflows.
• Run SIL/HIL test campaigns and analyze performance across nominal and off-nominal cases.

Requirements

• Experience with 6DOF attitude dynamics simulations.
• Hands-on experience with PID, LQR, or optimal control design.
• Experience with actuator allocation, momentum management, or desaturation logic.
• Experience with model-based software development processes.
• Experience with SIL/HIL simulation and test environments.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C++, and MATLAB.
• Proficiency with Git and Linux environments.

Nice to have

• BS or MS in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Applied Physics, or a related technical field.
• Experience developing ACS algorithms for spacecraft, satellites, UAVs, or autonomous systems.
• Familiarity with reaction wheels, magnetic torque rods, thrusters, star trackers, IMUs, magnetometers, or sun sensors.
• Experience with flight software integration, embedded deployment, or real-time systems.

Culture & Benefits

• We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
• All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.