Senior GNC Engineer

at  Rocket Lab USA

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor, Masters or Ph.D. in Electronics, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering
• 5+ years’ experience developing in Python or MATLAB
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• 5+ years’ experience developing in C/C++ including some embedded or high reliability development
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with Git version control
• Accustomed to working in a continuous integration environment
• Skilled with Simulink
• Familiar with Agile/Scrum based workflows
  If the above sounds like you apply now!

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Senior GNC Software Engineer is responsible, alongside the Director of GNC and GNC Launch Leads, for the design and implementation of GNC Software Systems involved in flight and ground operations for Electron, Neutron and their production.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

As a Senior GNC Software Engineer at Rocket Lab, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the software systems that control our cutting-edge rockets. You will be involved in the full lifecycle of software development, from initial design through to implementation and validation.

• Develop and validate 6DOF simulators to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our flight systems
• Design, implement, and verify flight software, including core GNC algorithms and auto-sequences, to ensure optimal performance during missions
• Perform unit tests and software integration tests to guarantee the highest levels of software quality
• Process data and automate the generation of detailed reports to facilitate informed decision-making
• Create new software products, review and approve software requirements, and conduct comprehensive Monte-Carlo simulations and pre-flight, launch-day, and post-flight analyses
• Model and predict vehicle parameters and manage configuration control to maintain system integrity
• Review software merge requests to ensure all new GNC Software meets our rigorous internal standards
• Identify and implement process improvements to drive efficiency within the GNC team
• Participate in launch activities and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) operations to ensure mission success