The Mission Space 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 Opportunity We 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 descent
Architect the mission planning and concept of operations for orbital and reentry operations
Serve as technical lead for the GNC engineers as the Delphi platform moves from development into flight operations
Work 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 new 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 Role You will own the GNC for our reusable satellite platform.
Lead simulation development, including high-fidelity 6-DOF dynamics and Monte Carlo environments
Own Fault Detection, Isolation and Response (FDIR) architecture and guide subsystem responsible engineers in authoring their own FDIR algorithms to autonomously handle anomalies
Develop real-time estimation techniques such as sensor fusion and extended Kalman filtering
Build, test, and deploy flight control software for trajectory and pointing operations, validated in hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) environments
Own deorbit targeting and reentry guidance, including landing footprint and dispersion analysis with the aerothermal and mission operations teams
Support GNC system design, including component selection, architecture, and trade studies
Lead flight planning, concept of operations, and mission execution strategies, and serve as GNC lead on console for flight
Reduce ground test data and flight telemetry to refine models and flight software between flights
Assist in hands-on testing, subassembly integration, and flight validation of spacecraft
Serve 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 field
10+ years of experience in GNC for spacecraft or advanced robotics applications, including hands-on work on a flight-proven GNC subsystem
Proficiency with estimation algorithms including Kalman filters and batch processing techniques
Experience designing and validating control and guidance algorithms for space systems
Strong background in simulation environments, including 6-DOF Monte Carlo modeling
Prior work in hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test environments, integrating GNC software with flight sensors and actuators
Programming proficiency in Python (NumPy, SciPy) and C++, and version control (Git), with production C++ in a continuous integration environment
Passion for hands‑on engineering and rapid hardware and software integration
Desired Experience
MS in Aerospace Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or a related technical field
Knowledge of orbit determination and trajectory optimization methods
Reentry or hypersonic vehicle GNC, aerodynamic control effector modeling, or multi‑body dynamics modeling
Rocket Lab MAX Flight Software or comparable modular flight software frameworks
Familiarity with spacecraft propulsion systems and orbital mechanics for LEO missions
Experience with robotic manipulators or autonomous vehicle navigation
Experience with embedded systems and implementing flight software on real‑time hardware, including Rust for flight or embedded software
Exposure to dual‑use commercial and government satellite programs
Location & Work We 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 & Benefits The 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) retirement plan.
Application Deadline: November 16, 2026
Certain 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.
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Principal GNC Engineer employer: Lux Aeterna
Lux Aeterna is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture in the heart of Denver, CO. With direct access to leadership and engineering teams, employees are empowered to drive significant revenue through multi-million dollar contracts while enjoying opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within a vibrant network of industry leaders. The hybrid/remote work model offers flexibility, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the aerospace sector.
