Sr. GNC Engineer (Starlink)

SpaceX is looking for engineers with backgrounds in orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation, spacecraft systems design, optimization, and software development to join the Starlink guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) team. Come help us write the autopilot algorithms for thousands of satellites (the world's largest constellation!) and more than two million user terminals, enabling access to high-speed broadband internet in all corners of the world.

Responsibilities:

• Develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, simulations, tools, services, and dashboards using C++ or Python
• Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews
• Bulk data analysis to review performance data from various elements of the Starlink constellation and network
• Write high quality technical documentation of programs, algorithms, or analysis
• Support relevant on-call operations rotation, commanding satellites or reviewing network data

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace, physics or an engineering discipline
• 5+ years of professional experience in GNC
• Software development experience in either C++ or Python

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline or physics
• Experience in developing, debugging, and deploying software for real-world applications
• Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, including low thrust trajectory optimization and stationkeeping
• Experience with state estimation, particularly attitude determination, orbit determination, GNSS, and radio navigation
• Familiarity with numerical probability of collision methods
• Passion for advancing the commercial space industry
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

Additional Requirements:

• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
• Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State due to ITAR requirements

SpaceX offers competitive compensation, including base salary, long-term incentives, potential bonuses, comprehensive benefits, and various perks. The company is committed to equal opportunity employment and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics.