GNC Engineer, Phased Array Devices (Starshield)

SpaceX

Quick summary

Work type: On-site
Location: Hawthorne, CA
Salary: $125,000–$150,000 / yr
Posted: today

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How this pay compares to similar roles

Similar $164k

This role $138k

$117k most similar roles pay here $201k

This role pays less than 66% of similar roles. Most pay $135,000–$193,000 — the shaded band above. At the midpoint, this role pays about $138k versus about $164k for comparable roles.

Based on 240 similar postings.

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About SpaceX

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft with the mission of enabling humans to become a multi-planetary species. It operates the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship launch vehicles, as well as the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

SpaceX currently has 604 open roles on FindRole.

Listed pay typically runs $130,000–$155,000 across 440 roles with salary data.

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TL;DR · GNC Engineer, Phased Array Devices (Starshield)

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Join the Starshield GNC team as a senior engineer, where you will design and develop advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for phased array antennas used in user terminals connecting to the space-based network. Your daily tasks include real-time state estimation, beam-steering logic development, and GNSS-independent PNT algorithm creation for high-velocity platforms. You will work closely with hardware engineers on future product design and conduct simulations for feature validation. Essential skills include expertise in C++, Python, MATLAB/Simulink, and experience with inertial navigation systems, phased array antennas, and translational state estimation without GNSS data. This role demands a strong background in aerospace engineering or related fields, coupled with hands-on software development experience.

Skills

C++ Python MATLAB Simulink Linux C Control theory Orbital mechanics State estimation GNSS PNT Classical dynamics MIMO Modeling and simulation

What you'll do

Design and analyze GNC logic for Starshield phased array antennas.
Develop real-time navigation using onboard sensors and optimal state estimation techniques.
Create beam-steering logic to track satellites and ensure link integrity in challenging environments.
Implement GNSS-independent PNT algorithms for precise positioning, navigation, and timing.
Model derivation and high-fidelity simulation for prototype feature development and validation.

What we're looking for

Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, computer science, or related field
Experience with C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink for software development
Expertise in attitude determination, state estimation, and feedback control systems
Direct experience with inertial navigation systems, GNSS, and phased array antennas
Strong understanding of classical dynamics, modeling, simulation, and Linux development

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