Full-Time

Lead GNC Engineer

Posted on 9/17/2024

Astra

Astra

201-500 employees

Provides launch services for small satellites

Aerospace

Compensation Overview

$165k - $208.5kAnnually

Senior, Expert

Alameda, CA, USA

This position is onsite in Alameda, CA.

Category
Flight Dynamics
Research & Development
Aerospace Engineering
Required Skills
Data Structures & Algorithms
Requirements
  • 8+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle GNC development and simulation
  • Advanced degree (Ph.D. /Masters) in engineering, physics, mathematics or equivalent
  • Experience with Simulink
  • In-depth knowledge of sensor integration and data fusion techniques for navigation systems (e.g., IMUs, GPS, star trackers)
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to articulate ideas, give technical feedback, and mentor team members
  • Ability to perform system-level integration and troubleshoot complex issues across subsystems
  • Expertise and a desire to lead a multidisciplinary team in prioritizing, planning, and execution
  • High level of accountability
Responsibilities
  • Develop: create requirements, GNC algorithms, simulation models, and trajectories
  • Test: build out test automation across all environments, including Simulink simulation, hardware-in-the-loop, engine test cells, and with integrated vehicles
  • Partner: work with other teams to define critical interfaces, specify component/system requirements, and contribute to decisions that shape future vehicles
  • Fly: support launch from mission control and fulfill GNC responsibilities during the countdown
  • Analyze: use ground test and flight data to verify system performance and improve the fidelity of the simulation
  • Ownership: end-to-end responsibility for large aspects of the GNC system

Astra provides launch services specifically for small satellites, catering to commercial businesses, government agencies, and research institutions that need reliable access to space. The company operates small, agile rockets designed to transport these satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO). Astra's approach focuses on making space more accessible by reducing the costs and complexities associated with satellite launches, which allows a wider range of customers to utilize their services. Unlike many competitors, Astra emphasizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness in its operations, aiming to meet the growing demand for satellite-based services such as Earth observation and telecommunications. The company's goal is to facilitate more frequent and affordable satellite launches, thereby expanding opportunities for various applications in the space industry.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$291.8M

Headquarters

Alameda, California

Founded

2016

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

-2%

1 year growth

-4%

2 year growth

-1%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Growing demand for small satellite constellations aligns with Astra's business model.
  • U.S. government investment in space technology presents contract opportunities for Astra.
  • Astra's reusable rocket technology could lead to significant cost reductions.

What critics are saying

  • Going private may limit Astra's access to public capital markets.
  • Astra faces financial instability due to liquidity crunch and high cost of capital.
  • Intensifying competition in the small satellite launch market could impact Astra's market share.

What makes Astra unique

  • Astra offers cost-effective launch services for small satellite payloads.
  • The company focuses on agile rockets for frequent access to space.
  • Astra provides online reservations for payload deliveries to various orbits.

Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?

Benefits

Competitive Medical (HMO & PPO)/Dental/Vision plans

Company paid Short Term Disability and Long Term Disability plans

401K with company match

Flexible Spending Account

Commuter benefits

Caregiving support benefits

Company perks, like PetPlan, curated gym/travel/products discounts

Free lunch

Company events

INACTIVE