Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer III (Clearance Required) at Sierra Space

Compensation · Listed in posting

$129,776 – $178,441/yr

Location: Centennial, Colorado · Louisville, Colorado
Type: Full-time
Level: mid
Posted: Sep 14, 2026

Description

Sierra Space is hiring a Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer III to lead the design, development, validation, and integration of advanced GNC systems for spacecraft applications. The role includes closed-loop system design, high-fidelity sensor and actuator modeling, Monte Carlo simulations, stability analysis, GNC algorithm development, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and technical leadership and mentoring. Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field or equivalent experience, at least five years of related experience, advanced SIMULINK, Python, and C++ skills, and an active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. security clearance. The position offers a base salary of $129,776 to $178,441.25 and medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Required Skills

Control theory
GNC algorithms
Embedded systems
SIMULINK
Python
C++
Monte Carlo simulations
HITL testing
Stability analysis
FDIR subsystems

Additional Information

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or a related technical engineering field, or equivalent work experience.
Required Previous Experiences: At least 5 years of related experience in dynamic modeling and GNC algorithm design.
Experience with SIMULINK auto coding and Linux/UNIX operating systems.
Experience developing high-fidelity models for algorithm design.
Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree for candidates with 3+ years of experience.
In-depth knowledge of GNC algorithms, control theory, stability margins, sensitivity analysis, optimization, and Kalman filtering.
Experience estimating workload for long-term tasking and quarterly or yearly planning.
Experience with open-loop and closed-loop stability analysis and autonomous GNC mode transitions.
Level 1 STK certification and ability to implement relevant design standards and processes.
Experience with HITL testing and validation processes.
Ability to develop integrated and bench-level closed-loop tests for system validation.
Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, including power and thermal constraints, communication viewing, and Control Structure Interaction model analysis.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to identify root causes and propose solutions.