GNC Engineer (Starfall)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. GNC ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, atmospheric entry, optimization, and software development to join the Starfall guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team. Come help us develop the GNC algorithms for Starfall, an entry capsule designed for logistics and in-space manufacturing applications. RESPONSIBILITIES Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards using C++ or Python; Starfall GNC Engineers write actual production code, not just prototypes for transcription by another team Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews Bulk data analysis to review performance data from Starfall flights, simulations, and operations Write high quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis Entry vehicle trajectory design, guidance, and optimization Atmospheric entry, descent, and landing (EDL) algorithms Precision navigation and state estimation for reentry and recovery Attitude determination and control during orbital, deorbit, and atmospheric flight phases Fleet-level or multi-vehicle coordination for logistics delivery and recovery operations Simulation, analysis, and performance evaluation of entry systems under a wide range of conditions Integration of GNC with vehicle systems supporting military logistics and in-space manufacturing missions BASIC QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline 1+ years of software development experience in either C++ or Python PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE Master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline or physics Developed, debugged and deployed software that has been used in real world applications/projects Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills and engineering fundamentals Experience with atmospheric entry guidance, navigation, and control for capsules or reentry vehicles Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, deorbit planning, and entry trajectory optimization Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation, and validation of the simulation's models (including atmospheric, aerodynamic, and thermal environments) Experience with state estimation, particularly for reentry vehicles (IMU, GNSS, radar/optical, or other sensors) Familiarity with hypersonic flight regimes, aeroheating considerations, and precision landing/recovery techniques General familiarity with the disciplines necessary for spacecraft and entry vehicle flight including structures, propulsion, avionics, GNC, flight software, dynamics, launch and mission operations, and integration. Practical experience in real world development of these systems is highly desired Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction Passion for advancing the commercial space industry and enabling new applications such as military logistics and in-space manufacturing Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere Excellent communication skills both written and verbal ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS: Pay range: Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in t…