GNC (Guidance, Navigation & Control) Engineer en Edge Autonomy

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $100,000 to $106,000 / year. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

SUMMARY

Edge Autonomy, a leading Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) / Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) aerospace manufacturing company, is seeking a talented and experienced GNC Engineer to join our team. As a GNC Engineer at Edge Autonomy, you will play a crucial role in the design, development, and implementation of guidance, navigation, and control systems for our UAS/UAV platforms. Your expertise in GNC algorithms, sensor integration, and flight control systems will contribute to the success of our cutting-edge autonomous aircraft. 
 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Design and develop GNC algorithms for autonomous UAS/UAV platforms, including guidance, navigation, and control systems. 

• Conduct analysis and simulation of vehicle dynamics, stability, and control performance to optimize system design and performance. 

• Integrate and calibrate sensors, such as GPS, IMU, magnetometers, and air data sensors, for accurate navigation and control. 

• Develop and implement sensor fusion algorithms to combine data from multiple sensors for improved situational awareness and control accuracy. 

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including software engineering, systems engineering, and flight operations, to ensure seamless integration of GNC systems. 

• Perform verification and validation activities, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and software-in-the-loop (SIL) simulations, to validate GNC systems against requirements. 

• Conduct flight testing of UAS/UAV platforms to evaluate and optimize GNC system performance. 

• Analyze flight test data and provide recommendations for improving the performance and safety of GNC systems. 

• Collaborate with external partners and suppliers to evaluate and integrate cutting-edge GNC technologies and components. 

• Stay updated on industry trends, research advancements, and emerging technologies relevant to GNC systems for UAS/UAVs. 

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices in all GNC system designs and developments. 

• Participate in the development of requirements and specifications for GNC systems based on customer needs and platform requirements. 

• Document GNC system designs, algorithms, test plans, and test results in technical reports and presentations. 

• Support the integration of GNC systems with other subsystems, such as avionics, payloads, and communication systems. 

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering processes and methodologies related to GNC system development. 

• Collaborate with the hardware engineering team to define and specify the requirements for sensors, actuators, and other GNC system components. 

• Work closely with the flight operations team to provide technical support and troubleshooting for GNC-related issues. 

• Stay updated on relevant regulations, standards, and best practices related to autonomous flight systems and GNC technology. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position: 

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree is desirable. 

• Proven experience in GNC system design, development, and implementation, preferably in the UAS/UAV or aerospace industry. 

• Strong knowledge of GNC algorithms, flight control systems, and sensor integration for autonomous aircraft. 

• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in GNC development, such as C++, Python, or MATLAB. 

• Experience with simulation tools and software packages for vehicle dynamics analysis, such as Simulink, MATLAB, or similar. 

• Familiarity with commercial autopilot systems, such as Pixhawk or Ardupilot, is a plus. 

• Knowledge of sensor fusion techniques and algorithms for accurate navigation and control. 

• Experience with flight testing, data analysis, and system optimization based on flight test results. 

• Familiarity with relevant regulations and standards for UAS/UAV airworthiness and safety, such as FAA Part 107, DO-178C, DO-254, and MIL-STD-1553. 

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a focus on delivering innovative and robust GNC solutions. 

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

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously. 

• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and tools is desirable. 

• Experience with software version control systems, issue tracking systems, and collaborative development tools. 

• Publications, patents, or contributions to the field of GNC systems for UAS/UAVs are highly regarded.

EDGE AUTONOMY BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

EDGE AUTONOMY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.