Principal GNC Engineer

As a Principal GNC Engineer at Firefly, you will serve as a technical authority on launch vehicle GNC systems enabling missions to low Earth orbit and beyond. This technical leadership role requires an authoritative knowledge base in launch vehicle GNC disciplines, with a proven track record of solving the most complex GNC challenges on operational missions.

What You Will Do

Develop and validate novel GNC methodologies, tools, and best practices for complex or unprecedented mission requirements. Lead resolution of the most challenging GNC problems across the organization. Provide authoritative technical review and oversight of launch vehicle GNC designs, changes, and risks.

Why It Might Be a Fit

This position balances hands-on technical contribution with strategic leadership, offering the opportunity to influence system architectures from concept through operations, represent Firefly's technical excellence to customers and executive leadership, and solve unique problems that push the boundaries of spaceflight.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in aerospace engineering or related field, or bachelor's degree with substantial technical accomplishments demonstrating analytical rigor equivalent to graduate research
• 10+ years of experience in launch vehicle GNC with demonstrated expertise and technical leadership across multiple programs
• Demonstrated experience supporting operational launch vehicle missions through multiple flight campaigns
• Mastery of launch vehicle dynamics with deep expertise in a specialization area combined with strong understanding across GNC domains
• Experience developing strategic vision, technical roadmaps, and capability development initiatives for GNC teams
• Proficiency in the development of flight software and physics simulations for spaceflight applications
• Software engineering expertise with proficiency in development practices including version control, code review, testing, documentation, and CI/CD
• Proficiency with Python, C++, Linux, and specialized tools and libraries relevant to domain
• Comprehensive knowledge of launch vehicle subsystems and their impact on GNC design and performance
• Demonstrated ability to elevate the technical capabilities of engineers through mentorship, developing high performers who strengthen the organization around them
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with an ability to convey complex technical concepts to executives, customers, and non-technical stakeholders

Benefits

• generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles
• parental leave
• educational reimbursement
• short term disability
• flexible PTO options