SpaceX
GNC Engineer, ADCS (Starlink)
About this role
SpaceX seeks a GNC engineer to develop autopilot algorithms and attitude control software for the Starlink satellite constellation and user terminals. You'll design flight-proven control systems, simulations, and operational tools that maintain satellite orientation and payload performance throughout their mission lifetimes.
What you'll do
- Develop production GNC algorithms, simulations, and tools in C++ or Python for satellite attitude control
- Conduct 6DOF modeling, Monte Carlo analysis, and hardware-in-the-loop testing to validate performance
- Design state estimation and control systems for translational and rotational spacecraft dynamics
- Create concepts of operations balancing thermal, power, communications, and payload-pointing constraints
- Perform bulk constellation performance data analysis and maintain GNC software configurations
- Support on-call operations rotation to command satellites and optimize network performance
What they're looking for
- C++ or Python software development
- Orbital mechanics and spacecraft dynamics
- Control theory and state estimation
- 6DOF simulation and Monte Carlo analysis
- Attitude determination and attitude control systems
- Hardware-in-the-loop testing and validation
- Systems integration across thermal, power, and communications disciplines
- Technical documentation and communication
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SpaceX
SpaceX develops advanced spacecraft and satellite systems, including the Starshield government satellite constellation and Starfall re-entry cargo capsule for global delivery. The company is hiring engineers in avionics integration, software test automation, mechanical design, and hardware reliability to validate flight-critical systems and ensure mission success.
- Website
- spacex.com
Likely interview questions
- Describe your experience developing and validating GNC algorithms—what simulation frameworks have you used?
- How have you approached 6DOF spacecraft dynamics modeling, and what tools or languages did you use?