Lead / Senior GNC Engineer

Lead / Senior GNC Engineer (Satellites / Spacecraft)Location: Los Angeles, California, United StatesEmployment Type: Full-Time | On-SitePackage: Competitive Salary + Equity + Benefits + Flexible PTOAre you a GNC Engineer with strong experience across ADCS, orbital mechanics, and flight operations, looking to take ownership of full mission lifecycle delivery?On offer is the opportunity to join a high-growth space company building next-generation satellite platforms through advanced computational engineering. You’ll lead the development of GNC systems from early mission design through to on-orbit operations, playing a critical role in ensuring spacecraft reach and maintain their intended trajectories. Join a team redefining satellite engineering with a first-principles approach, combining advanced simulation, rapid design iteration, and integrated hardware/software development. You’ll work across orbit design, control systems, propulsion integration, and live mission operations, owning the GNC function end-to-end. This position would suit a hands-on GNC engineer who enjoys both deep technical work and leadership responsibility, someone comfortable moving from simulation and modelling into real-world flight operations.Key Responsibilities • Lead the design, integration, and testing of GNC systems across satellite programmes • Perform orbit design, trajectory analysis, and momentum/propellant budgeting using STK or Python-based tools • Develop and tune control laws for pointing, detumbling, and station-keeping • Interface with ADCS and propulsion suppliers to ensure seamless system integration • Work closely with avionics and integration teams to ensure correct hardware calibration and performance • Transition into mission operations, managing GNC manoeuvres and resolving in-flight anomalies • Act as the primary technical point of contact for external mission operations coordination (e.g. Space Defence stakeholders) • Document system design, testing, and performance, ensuring compliance with industry standards • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a high-performance engineering cultureEssential Skills and Experience • Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline with focus on astrodynamics • 5+ years of experience in spacecraft GNC, including ADCS and propulsion systems • Strong experience in orbital mechanics, mission design, and trajectory analysis • Proficiency in programming (Python, C++, or MATLAB) for modelling and flight software integration • Experience with satellite operations, ground systems, and GPS interfacing • Hands-on experience working with hardware, integration, or cleanroom environments • Strong leadership ability with experience mentoring engineers and driving technical delivery • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detailIf you’re ready to take ownership of mission-critical GNC systems and play a key role in getting spacecraft from concept to orbit, apply now or send your resume to jake.payne@newspacetechnical.com