Lead GNC Engineer - Architect the World's First Self-Assembling Spacecraft.Opportunity Summary A new era of space infrastructure is unfolding and you can help lead it. This pre-seed, stealth-mode startup, backed by top venture firms and led by experienced aerospace veterans, is developing the first self-assembling spacecraft system designed for scalable on-orbit construction. Following a successful space-based technology demonstration, the company is now focused on commercialization with both government and commercial partners. With a roadmap that includes another orbital demo and a free-flyer mission, we're moving fast, and we're looking for a Lead GNC Engineer to take charge of autonomous guidance and control. In this role you'll design and implement the core GNC architecture that enables electromagnetic tile arrays to autonomously navigate, align, and assemble in orbit. If you're energized by first-principles problem-solving, thrive in ambiguity, and want to build autonomy for a system that redefines how spacecraft are created, this is the role for you.
About Us We are a venture-backed space startup focused on unlocking in-space assembly through autonomous systems, advanced robotics, and electromagnetic interfaces. Our core technology, demonstrated in orbit, enables spacecraft to self-assemble and reconfigure on demand, creating entirely new possibilities for scalable, adaptive platforms in space. Based in Denver, we're combining deep technical roots with a fast-moving, hands-on culture to commercialize this capability for defense, civil, and commercial missions.
Job Responsibilities - Design and implement guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for a multi-body, modular spacecraft system
- Build simulation frameworks to model 6-DOF dynamics, relative motion, and multi-agent interactions
- Develop autonomous assembly behaviors using real-time estimation, formation control, and fault tolerance strategies
- Integrate sensor fusion algorithms (e.g. extended Kalman filters) with relative navigation sensors
- Lead control system development for on-orbit maneuvers, docking, and electromagnetic actuation
- Collaborate on system-level architecture, including sensing, propulsion, and control interfaces
- Support real-world testing, including HITL (hardware-in-the-loop) simulation and integrated prototyping
- Define flight software requirements and support implementation on embedded platforms
- Contribute to flight planning, mission design, and operational CONOPS for upcoming orbital missions
Required Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Controls, Robotics, or a closely related discipline
- 5+ years of experience developing GNC systems for spacecraft, autonomous vehicles, or robotics
- Expertise in control algorithm design and state estimation techniques
- Hands-on experience building and testing guidance systems in simulation and hardware environments
- Fluency in one or more technical programming languages such as Python, C , or MATLAB
- Familiarity with embedded software systems and version control tools
- Comfortable operating in high-uncertainty, high-impact technical environments
Preferred Experience - Graduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant technical field
- Experience with modular spacecraft, docking, or on-orbit servicing
- Knowledge of electromagnetic actuation and distributed control systems
- Background in multi-agent robotics or swarm autonomy
- Exposure to orbital mechanics, spacecraft dynamics, and relative navigation
- Previous contributions to spaceflight missions or successful GNC system deployments
Security Clearance - Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.
Why Join Us - Help pioneer a first-of-its-kind, in-space assembly platform
- Take technical ownership of core GNC systems from design to deployment
- Join an experienced team tackling meaningful, novel engineering challenges
- Be part of a startup with real hardware in space and a bold roadmap ahead
- Enjoy a flexible hybrid work environment based in Denver
- High-growth opportunity in a critical frontier market
- Competitive salary and early-stage equity
- Medical, dental & vision insurance
- Work on tech that will shape the next generation of space infrastructure
Compensation Details $135,000 - $185,000 + equity