Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Systems Engineer - Missile Programs

Stellar Solutions is a recognized leader in delivering high-impact engineering services and mission success for national and international space programs. We specialize in aligning top-tier talent with critical technical challenges to ensure success in every mission.

Stellar Solutions is seeking a hands-on Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Systems Engineer to support advanced missile and weapon system programs. We are looking for an individual who combines strong analytical skills, practical experience in flight dynamics, and the ability to work within cross-disciplinary engineering teams. The selected candidate will lead or contribute to the design, integration, and testing of precision guidance and navigation systems that ensure mission success in demanding environments.

Key Responsibilities:

As the GNC Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in defining, developing, and validating missile guidance and navigation algorithms and flight performance models. Your work will involve:

Developing and analyzing guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for missile and interceptor systems.
• Performing system-level modeling and simulation (6-DOF, Monte Carlo, trajectory optimization).
• Conducting trade studies and sensitivity analyses to optimize performance and reliability.
• Integrating sensor data (IMU, GPS, seeker inputs) into state-estimation filters (Kalman, EKF, UKF).
• Supporting hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) testing and post-flight data analysis.
• Collaborating with flight software, systems, and hardware teams to ensure end-to-end system performance.
• Documenting and presenting technical results to government customers and internal leadership.

In our fast-paced, mission-focused environment, you will contribute to iterative design cycles, participate in technical reviews, and ensure compliance with mission assurance and quality standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in GNC algorithm design or analysis for missile, interceptor, or launch vehicle programs.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink, C++, or Python for modeling, simulation, and algorithm development.
• Strong understanding of flight dynamics, control theory, and state estimation.
• U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.

Desired Qualifications and Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in Aerospace or related field.
• Experience supporting MDA, USAF, USN, or DARPA missile programs.
• Familiarity with hypersonic or boost-glide vehicle guidance systems.
• Experience with embedded flight software integration or RTOS environments (e.g., GreenHills).
• Hands-on experience with HWIL setups, sensor integration, and post-flight data analysis.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to lead small, agile technical teams.

The typical salary range for this position is USD $120,000 - $170,000 per year. Individual pay is determined by many factors including work location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. This position is also eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus, retirement plan and other benefits (all in addition to salary).

At Stellar Solutions, you'll be part of a world-class engineering team solving the nation's most critical aerospace and defense challenges. We offer a dynamic environment where technical excellence, mission impact, and professional growth intersect. Our commitment to employee-owned success and work-life balance makes Stellar one of the most recognized employers in the industry.