GNC Engineer, Orbit Control (Starlink)

SpaceX
Redmond
Workplace: OnsiteFull time125,000 - 175,000 annuallyFunction: Data Analytics & Business IntelligenceEducation: bachelorsSkills: ["C++","Python","Orbit mechanics","State-space methods","Trajectory optimization","Model predictive control","Convex optimization","Satellite simulation","On-orbit experimentation"]

Design and implement GNC algorithms for Starlink orbit control, developing closed-loop trajectory and maneuver planning while collaborating across spacecraft and ground segments. Write production-grade C++/Python code, run simulations and on-orbit experiments, and influence hardware concepts to maintain 10k+ satellites’ precise positioning and resilience in a fast-paced startup environment.

Loading

Loading job details...

Preparing the role view and application actions.

FursaFursa
SpaceX
SpaceX
3 months ago

GNC Engineer, Orbit Control (Starlink)

✓ Verified Job

Canonical indexed version, validated from employer's careers page.

Source: Company careers pageValidated by: Fursa AI
Last checked: 16 hours agoStatus: Live

Job Summary

Design and implement GNC algorithms for Starlink orbit control, developing closed-loop trajectory and maneuver planning while collaborating across spacecraft and ground segments. Write production-grade C++/Python code, run simulations and on-orbit experiments, and influence hardware concepts to maintain 10k+ satellites’ precise positioning and resilience in a fast-paced startup environment.
Location: Redmond
Workplace: Onsite
Employment Type: Full time
Job Function: Data Analytics & Business Intelligence

Key Responsibilities

  • •Develop closed-loop trajectory control algorithms for all mission phases, including orbit raise, station-keeping, and deorbit.
  • •Identify and implement features to improve control performance, prediction quality, solar storm resilience, and network impact.
  • •Conduct simulation studies and on-orbit experiments to assess configuration and algorithm changes.
  • •Contribute to hardware development and concept of operations through trade studies for new satellite generations.
  • •Support large-scale constellation maneuvers and write production code in C++ and Python for satellites and ground segments.

Pay and Benefits

Salary: 125,000 - 175,000 annually
Equity and Bonus:Equity
Perks:Health InsuranceDentalVision401kEquityPaid LeaveParental Leave

Key Requirements

  • •Bachelor’s degree in any engineering discipline, physics, math, or computer science
  • •Strong fundamental understanding of dynamical systems
  • •Software development experience in C++ and Python
  • •Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field (preferred)
  • •Experience with trajectory optimization, model predictive control, convex optimization, and/or mixed-integer programming (preferred)
Experience:AerospaceSpaceflightSatellites
Education:Bachelor's
Skills:C++PythonOrbit mechanicsState-space methodsTrajectory optimizationModel predictive controlConvex optimizationSatellite simulationOn-orbit experimentation
Languages:English
Tech Stack:C++PythonOrbit mechanicsState-space methodsModel predictive controlTrajectory optimizationConvex optimizationSimulationOn-orbit software

Company Brief

SpaceX
Designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft for commercial and government customers, aiming to reduce space transportation costs and enable human life on Mars through reusable launch vehicles and integrated space systems.
Industry: Aerospace Manufacturing
Company Size: Enterprise (1,001+ employees)
Growth: Established Company
Valuation: Hectocorn (USD 100B+)
Funding: Series E+
Headquarters: Hawthorne, United States
Founded: 2002
Glassdoor
Glassdoor: 4.2
WebsiteLinkedIn