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GNC Engineer, Orbit Control (Starlink)

SpaceX· Starlink Constellation Engineering
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Redmond, WA$125k - $145k + equityFull-timePosted 5mo ago

About the role

GNC engineer on SpaceX Starlink orbit control team developing trajectory control algorithms for thousands of satellites, performing simulations and on-orbit experiments, and contributing to hardware concepts and ground/flight software.

Responsibilities

  • Develop closed-loop trajectory control algorithms using a mix of discrete and continuous manipulation of thrust and drag for all mission phases, including orbit raise, station-keeping, and deorbit.
  • Identify and implement features to improve control performance, enhance prediction quality, increase solar storm resilience, and reduce network impact.
  • Conduct simulation studies and on-orbit experiments to assess configuration and algorithm changes.
  • Contribute to development of new satellite generations via trade studies informing hardware development and concept of operations.
  • Support large-scale constellation maneuvers such as shell lowering and respacing via analysis and feature development.
  • Write high quality production code in C++ and Python; deploy on satellites and ground segment.
  • Participate in architecture, design, and code reviews.
  • Develop performance metrics and dashboards to monitor the fleet.
  • Write clear technical documentation of programs, algorithms, and analyses.
  • Participate in operation of the satellite fleet.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in applicable engineering discipline, physics, math, or computer science
  • Strong fundamental understanding of dynamical systems
  • Software development experience in C++ and Python

Skills

Required:Dynamical systemsC++Python

Benefits

  • Long-term incentives (stock/stock options or long-term cash awards)
  • Discretionary bonuses
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation
  • 10+ paid holidays per year
  • Paid sick time (Washington State)
  • Company shuttles from select Seattle locations to SpaceX Redmond office (Mon-Fri)
Last updated Jul 8, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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