The MissionSpace is the infrastructure layer for humanity’s next industrial revolution. While reusable rockets have opened the door, true economic transformation requires orbital logistics that are as accessible and reliable as commercial aviation. At Lux Aeterna, we’re building that future by developing the first fully reusable satellite platform built for reliable reentry, recovery, and rapid redeployment, transforming space from a one-way street into a two-way highway for innovation and commerce.The OpportunityWe are seeking a Principal GNC Engineer to own guidance, navigation, and control for Lux Aeterna’s reusable satellite platform, from attitude determination and pointing on orbit through the deorbit burn, controlled reentry, and recovery. You will set the GNC architecture, own the simulation and FDIR that prove it, and fly it. This is a unique opportunity to: Own GNC for a vehicle that has to come home: orbit, deorbit targeting, reentry, and descentArchitect the mission planning and concept of operations for orbital and reentry operationsServe as technical lead for the GNC engineers as the Delphi platform moves from development into flight operationsWork directly with technical leadership to shape the future of space transportation Why Lux Aeterna? Pioneering Technology: We’re developing the first reusable satellite platform with controlled return capability, fundamentally transforming space from a one-way journey to a two-way highway Real Impact: Your work will enable current industries in space manufacturing, research, and logistics while pioneering sustainable space infrastructure Speed & Autonomy: We maintain parallel hardware development streams and empower engineers to innovate rapidly while upholding rigorous aerospace standards World-Class Team: Work alongside experts from leading aerospace companies and research institutions, building technology that will reshape humanity’s access to space The RoleYou will own the GNC for our reusable satellite platform. Lead simulation development, including high-fidelity 6-DOF dynamics and Monte Carlo environmentsOwn Fault Detection,



Isolation and Response (FDIR) architecture and guide subsystem responsible engineers in authoring their own FDIR algorithms to autonomously handle anomaliesDevelop real-time estimation techniques such as sensor fusion and extended Kalman filteringBuild, test, and deploy flight control software for trajectory and pointing operations, validated in hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) environmentsOwn deorbit targeting and reentry guidance, including landing footprint and dispersion analysis with the aerothermal and mission operations teamsSupport GNC system design, including component selection, architecture, and trade studiesLead flight planning, concept of operations, and mission execution strategies, and serve as GNC lead on console for flightReduce ground test data and flight telemetry to refine models and flight software between flightsAssist in hands-on testing, subassembly integration, and flight validation of spacecraftServe as technical lead for the GNC engineers (no direct reports): set standards, review designs, and mentor; collaborate cross-functionally with software, avionics, propulsion, and mechanical teams Required Qualifications BS in Aerospace Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or a related technical field10+ years of experience in GNC for spacecraft or advanced robotics applications, including hands-on work on a flight-proven GNC subsystemProficiency with estimation algorithms including Kalman filters and batch processing techniquesExperience designing and validating control and guidance algorithms for space systemsStrong background in simulation environments, including 6-DOF Monte Carlo modelingPrior work in hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test environments,



integrating GNC software with flight sensors and actuatorsProgramming proficiency in Python (Num Py, Sci Py) and C++, and version control (Git), with production C++ in a continuous integration environmentPassion for hands‑on engineering and rapid hardware and software integration Desired Experience MS in Aerospace Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or a related technical fieldKnowledge of orbit determination and trajectory optimization methodsReentry or hypersonic vehicle GNC, aerodynamic control effector modeling, or multi‑body dynamics modelingRocket Lab MAX Flight Software or comparable modular flight software frameworksFamiliarity with spacecraft propulsion systems and orbital mechanics for LEO missionsExperience with robotic manipulators or autonomous vehicle navigationExperience with embedded systems and implementing flight software on real‑time hardware, including Rust for flight or embedded softwareExposure to dual‑use commercial and government satellite programs Location & WorkWe are based in Denver, CO and believe in the power of in‑person collaboration. We are onsite 5 days/week by default, but flexible when life requires it. This role will include travel to vendor sites, partner facilities, test facilities, the launch site, and the recovery zone in the run‑up to and during flight.Compensation & BenefitsThe anticipated base salary range for this position is $175,000 to $250,000 per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, skills, and job‑related responsibilities.This position is also eligible for equity compensation, as applicable.Lux Aeterna offers a benefits package of medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off and company holidays; and a 401(k) retirementplan.Application Deadline: November 16, 2026Certain roles may involve access to export‑controlled technical data. To comply with U. S. export‑control laws, access may be limited to individuals who qualify as a “U. S. person” under 22 C. F. R. §120.62 or who otherwise may lawfully receive such access.#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Principal Gnc Engineer (Quinte West)
🏢 Lux Aeterna
📍 Quinte West