Spacecraft GNC Engineer (Early)

Los Angeles, CA, United States

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As launch costs decrease, more and more companies and governments are launching increasingly large numbers of smaller satellites. For the first time in history, this increase in demand is driving a massive need for spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. Satellite buses carry customers’ payloads and are delivered to space on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale using a combination of disruptive software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our satellite buses are truly productized to enable a wide set of missions, ranging from earth observation to communications and more, that advance our future as a society.

We are seeking a spacecraft GNC engineer to work on a closely integrated team who will drive the design of the GNC system, including hardware and software, to meet the position, attitude, knowledge and stability requirements of our bus. You will have an opportunity to approach this from a clean sheet design and inform coupled trades across the vehicle architecture. You will be innovative in your approach to push the limits of design and performance, while disrupting and making an impact on the industry. This role reports directly into the Director of Spacecraft.

Responsibilities: Develop and implement GNC algorithms for satellite systems, including attitude determination and control, orbit determination and control, and precision pointing.

Conduct analysis of spacecraft dynamics and perform simulations to evaluate system performance, stability, and accuracy.

Design, develop, and test spacecraft control systems, including reaction wheels, thrusters, and magnetic torquers, to achieve desired mission objectives.

Collaborate with spacecraft and payload engineers to define system requirements and ensure GNC system compatibility and integration.

Perform trade studies and make recommendations for optimal GNC configurations, considering factors such as power consumption, mass, and cost.

Develop and execute test plans and procedures for GNC systems, including system-level testing, performance evaluation, and anomaly resolution.

Analyze and interpret spacecraft telemetry data to diagnose and troubleshoot GNC-related anomalies and performance issues.

Collaborate with software engineers to develop GNC software modules and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration with overall satellite systems.

Stay up-to-date with industry advancements and emerging technologies in GNC systems, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Provide technical expertise and support to cross-functional teams, including project managers, system engineers, and operations personnel.

Develop GNC algorithm and subsystem tests and validation criteria for functional and performance verification.

Requirements: U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

1-3 years of professional experience as a GNC Engineer, preferably in the satellite or aerospace industry.

Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.

Experience in programming languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, Python with experience in numerical simulation and analysis.

Familiarity with GNC hardware and software components, such as sensors (gyroscopes, accelerometers, star trackers), actuators, and control algorithms.

Experience with simulation tools and software packages commonly used in spacecraft GNC engineering (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, STK).

Knowledge of industry standards and protocols for satellite GNC systems, such as CCSDS, ECSS, and GPS/GNSS.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate complex system dynamics and propose effective solutions.

Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in a team-oriented environment.

Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.

Benefits

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:

- Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.

- Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance plans. The primary's premium is 99%+ covered.

- Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, fostering employee well-being.

- Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.

- Paternity/maternity leave.

- Daily lunch, unlimited snacks, and regular office BBQs!

- Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.

- A world class office located in Culver City, filled with amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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