Spacecraft GNC Engineer I/II

Spacecraft Gnc Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

The Spacecraft Gnc Engineer I/II is responsible for leading Gnc and Adcs development for Rocket Lab's growing fleet of diverse spacecraft. You will demonstrate a firm grasp of spacecraft Gnc concepts and applications. You will work with all facets of the engineering life cycle: spacecraft concept and algorithm development, flight software implementation, subsystem requirements development, detailed Gnc design, subsystem integration & test (I&T), and vehicle I&T. You will be responsible for planning and maintaining the development schedule to support the Space Systems Software organization in executing leading edge programs and products. You will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Avionics, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. You will also directly interact with customers to ensure mission success.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Design of flight software, algorithms, and simulation product
• Development of spacecraft autonomy tools for constellation management
• Gnc component selection and Gnc subsystem design
• Test process development and execution
• Define fault detection and response
• Hardware-in-the-loop and Monte Carlo simulation
• Integration of flight and simulation software with modern analysis, test, and operations tools
• Support internal and external design reviews
• Work with department leads and program managers to plan and maintain team schedule and milestones and report technical status
• Coordinate with teams in Denver, Colorado and New Zealand

Qualifications You'll Bring As Spacecraft Gnc Engineer I:

• Bs and experience in Gnc/Adcs
• Prior experience directly interfacing with aerospace customers in the commercial or government sectors
• U.s citizenship is required, due to program requirements

Qualifications You'll Bring As Spacecraft Gnc Engineer II:

• Bs and 2+ years of industry experience in Gnc/Adcs
• Prior experience directly interfacing with aerospace customers in the commercial or government sectors
• U.s citizenship is required, due to program requirements

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Ms or phd
• Active dod us government secret security clearance or, ability to obtain and maintain one
• 2+ years of rpod design and operations experience
• Experience in Jira planning and workflow
• Prior experiencing mentoring a team of younger engineers
• Hands-on experience with Imu, reaction wheels, star trackers, gyroscopes, and other Gnc hardware
• Experience developing blended attitude solutions from a variety of sensor data
• Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and verifying flight software
• Demonstrated experience with spacecraft on-orbit operations and anomaly resolution
• Prior experience leading a team across a project lifecycle (not necessarily a spacecraft, not necessarily a whole Gnc system)
• Prior experience working multiple projects simultaneously and determining priorities for a team
• Experience with Gnc-related Business Development or conceptual design work

Additional Requirements:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise