Search for GNC Engineer positions in Hawthorne, CA, focused on aerospace engineering, with experience in C++ or Python, for full-time roles, and requiring great problem-solving skills.

Okay, I've found several GNC Engineer positions in Hawthorne, CA that focus on aerospace engineering and require experience in C++ or Python for full-time roles. These positions emphasize strong problem-solving skills. Specifically, I have located 27 suitable job listings for you to review.

GNC Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

Aerospace Engineering

C++

Python

Full Time

Can you help me to analyze the job description and company culture?

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The GNC Engineer role focused on Beam Planning for SpaceX's Starshield program is fundamentally about marrying advanced technology with mission-critical national security applications. This role expects the candidate to utilize their expertise in spacecraft systems, state estimation, and algorithm development to ensure that the GNC (Guidance, Navigation, and Control) algorithms and software are robust and perform optimally during various mission phases. Key responsibilities encompass the development of algorithms, flight software, and validation simulations, which means that the candidate will frequently face complex problems surrounding system performance and operational efficiencies. Success in this position is likely measured by the ability to balance competing design requirements, effectively communicate technical details, and ensure the reliability of the system through rigorous simulation and analysis. A strong focus on collaboration is essential, as cross-functional coordination with other engineers and departments will be necessary to deliver on the demands of high-stakes missions.

Company Analysis:

SpaceX operates at the forefront of the commercial space industry, with a clear mission to revolutionize space transportation and enable human life on Mars. The company's innovative culture emphasizes rapid problem-solving in a fast-paced environment, appealing to individuals who thrive in conditions where they can exert autonomy and innovation. As a team member on the Starshield project, the GNC Engineer will be part of a mission-critical team aimed at leveraging advanced technologies for government use, which could include high visibility roles directly impacting national security. The company prioritizes excellence, pushing boundaries in aerospace technology, while also maintaining stringent operational standards and security protocols. For someone stepping into this role, aligning personal motivation with the company’s ambitious objectives and innovative spirit is key—this is not just a job but an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in space technology.

Mock up some interview questions based on the job description.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

Tell me about a time when you had to solve a complex engineering problem with minimal guidance. What was the challenge and what was the outcome?
Describe a project where you developed software tools for analyzing system performance. What methodologies did you use?
Can you share an experience where you worked in a fast-paced environment? How did you manage competing priorities?
Tell me about a time you had to communicate a complex technical concept to a non-technical audience. How did you approach it?
How would you approach the development of a GNC algorithm for a new type of payload? What factors would you consider?
What steps would you take to validate the performance of a GNC algorithm via simulation?
Can you walk us through your experience with satellite payload performance simulations?
Imagine you are tasked with optimizing a current payload's performance after initial deployment. What process would you follow?
Why are you interested in working at SpaceX specifically, and how do you see your background contributing to our mission?
How do your values align with SpaceX’s goals, especially concerning innovation and advancing human capabilities in space?
What practices do you implement to ensure high-quality technical documentation in your projects?
As a GNC Engineer, how would you balance the need for rapid development with the need for reliability and safety in software?
What questions do you have about the team dynamics within the Starshield project at SpaceX?
What are the biggest challenges you anticipate in this role, and how would you prepare to address them?
How do you envision contributing to the collaboration between different engineering teams at SpaceX?

Job Details

Overview Company

GNC Engineer

$120k/y-$170k/y

SpaceX

9 days ago

Highlight

OnsiteFull-timeEntry

Summary

SpaceX is seeking a GNC Engineer, Beam Planning (Starshield) to join their team in Hawthorne, CA. The role involves developing GNC algorithms, flight software, and supporting national security efforts through Starshield.

About the Role

As a GNC Engineer, you will develop highly reliable and performant GNC algorithms, flight software, simulations, tools, and services using C++ or Python. You will conduct analyses, recommend designs, and write GNC software that balances competing requirements. The role includes building software tools, constructing scenarios to analyze system performance, and writing high-quality technical documentation. You will also support on-call operations and ensure ground and vehicle software operate at peak performance.

About You

Required:

Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science/software engineering, or an engineering discipline.
Software development experience in C++ or Python.

Preferred:

Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline.
Experience in verifying GNC algorithm performance via simulation and validation of the simulation's models.
Experience simulating satellite payload performance.
Demonstrated experience in developing state estimation algorithms or optimization.
Experience with RF Linux development.
Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere.
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Active TS/SCI clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Benefits

Base salary ranging from $120k–$170k depending on level and experience.
Eligibility for long-term incentives, including company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards.
Potential discretionary bonuses.
Ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
Access to a 401(k) retirement plan.
Short and long-term disability insurance.
Life insurance.
Paid parental leave.
Various other discounts and perks.
3 weeks of paid vacation.
Eligibility for 10 or more paid holidays per year.
Paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy.

SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches the world’s most advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company was founded in 2002 by Elon Musk to revolutionize space transportation, with the ultimate goal of making life multiplanetary.

SpaceX has gained worldwide attention for a series of historic milestones. It is the only private company ever to return a spacecraft from low-Earth orbit, which it first accomplished in December 2010. The company made history again in May 2012 when its Dragon spacecraft attached to the International Space Station, exchanged cargo payloads, and returned safely to Earth — a technically challenging feat previously accomplished only by governments. Since then Dragon has delivered cargo to and from the space station multiple times, providing regular cargo resupply missions for NASA.

For more information, visit www.spacex.com.

Hawthorne, CA