GNC Engineer (Dragon)

SpaceX is developing technologies to enable human life on Mars and advance space exploration.
$120,000 - $170,000
Backend
Entry-Level Software Engineer
In-Person
5,000+ Employees
1+ year of experience
Space

Description For GNC Engineer (Dragon)

SpaceX, a pioneering space exploration company, is seeking a GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) Engineer for their Dragon spacecraft program. This role sits at the intersection of aerospace engineering and software development, focusing on critical mission aspects of both Crew and Cargo Dragon missions.

The position offers an exciting opportunity to work directly on SpaceX's mission to make humanity a multi-planetary species. As a GNC Engineer, you'll be responsible for trajectory design, optimization, and implementing mission-critical software algorithms. You'll work closely with NASA and other stakeholders to ensure mission requirements are met while contributing to the advancement of human spaceflight.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in orbital mechanics and software development, particularly in C++ and Python. While the role requires only 1+ years of experience, there's a clear path for growth with opportunities to take on more complex challenges. The position offers competitive compensation ranging from $120,000 to $170,000 depending on experience level, along with substantial benefits including equity opportunities and comprehensive healthcare.

This role is perfect for someone who combines technical expertise with a passion for space exploration. You'll be working in an environment that values innovation and direct contribution to humanity's space future. The position requires dedication, with the possibility of extended hours during critical mission phases, but offers the unique reward of being part of humanity's journey to the stars.

Working at SpaceX means joining a team that's actively pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space technology. The company's commitment to enabling human life on Mars provides a compelling mission that goes beyond typical engineering challenges. This role offers not just a job, but a chance to be part of humanity's next giant leap.

Last updated 16 hours ago

Responsibilities For GNC Engineer (Dragon)

  • Perform trajectory design, optimization, and dispersion analysis for Crew and Cargo Dragon missions
  • Implement new software or algorithms to support mission unique capabilities
  • Select flight constants and guidance parameters
  • Post-flight data review and correlation with analyses
  • Analysis to verify compliance with contractual mission requirements
  • Document analysis and test results
  • Mission operations support
  • Test flight software

Requirements For GNC Engineer (Dragon)

Python
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering discipline or physics
  • 1+ years of experience with orbital mechanics, classical dynamics, modeling and simulation
  • 1+ years of experience with software languages C++ and/or Python
  • Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee (ITAR requirements)

Benefits For GNC Engineer (Dragon)

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401k
Equity
Parental Leave
  • Long-term incentives (company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards)
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short & long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • 3 weeks paid vacation
  • 10+ paid holidays per year
  • 5 days sick leave per year

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