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Senior Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer

El Segundo, California

Company Description

Icarus is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, developing solar-powered stratospheric drones designed to enhance global connectivity and observation. Operating at altitudes 20 times closer to Earth than Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, our drones deliver superior 5G direct-to-device communication and ultra-high-resolution imagery. With the capability to remain airborne for up to a year through autonomous solar-powered operations, Icarus offers continuous, cost-effective solutions that surpass traditional cell towers and satellite systems.

 

Role Description

As a Guidance, Navigation, and Controls (GNC) Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing the flight control systems that enable reliable operations of our solar-powered drones in the challenging stratospheric environment.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of guidance algorithms, navigation systems, and control strategies to achieve stable and efficient flight operations.
  • Develop high-fidelity simulations to model vehicle dynamics and validate GNC algorithms under various flight conditions.
  • Collaborate with hardware, software, and aerospace teams to integrate GNC systems seamlessly into the drone platform.
  • Plan and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations, ground tests, and flight tests to validate GNC system performance.
  • Analyze test data to identify areas for improvement and refine GNC algorithms for enhanced performance.
  • Ensure all GNC designs and processes comply with industry standards and maintain thorough documentation for certification and knowledge sharing.
  • Source and communicate with vendors and suppliers for relevant COTS components.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
  • Minimum of 5 years of Guidance, Navigation, and Control experience

 

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in GNC system design and implementation, preferably in aerospace or UAV applications.
  • Proficiency in developing and implementing GNC algorithms using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink and programming languages like C/C++ and Python.
  • Experience with sensor fusion techniques, including Kalman filtering, for navigation systems.
  • Strong understanding of flight dynamics, control theory, and aircraft mechanics.
  • Proven track record in conducting simulation studies and flight tests for GNC systems.
  • Experience with software-in-the-loop and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and real-time simulation environments.

 

Compensation and Benefits:

  • $120,000 to $160,000 salary
  • Large equity in the company
  • Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision plan with HSA.
  • Dream desk setup, including tools and whatever else you need to be your most productive self.
  • Daily lunch and unlimited Celsius.
  • Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.

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