Engineer II
The Engineer II role at Confidential Client involves developing and implementing guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for satellite missions, including rendezvous and proximity operations. The position requires simulation, analysis, and system-level design of satellite attitude control systems, working closely with a small team to support national security projects for defense and intelligence customers.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an Engineer II (Guidance, Navigation & Control — GNC) to join its CSS group in Herndon, VA. The role contributes to satellite guidance, navigation and control, Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO), simulation, and mission testing in support of national security customers. This position typically sits at the entry-level (0–2 years experience) and requires U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
What You’ll Do
- Develop and implement guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for satellite missions.
- Design, simulate, and test Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO) systems.
- Establish, maintain, and execute satellite attitude-control simulation software.
- Analyze stability and robustness of guidance and control algorithms using control theory and Monte Carlo simulations.
- Participate in system-level design of satellite subsystems across project phases, including architectural design for attitude-control.
- Work closely with small, multidisciplinary teams and take technical direction from senior GNC and Systems staff.
- Maintain strict confidentiality for sensitive information and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support mission requirements.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution, or equivalent engineering experience. Typically 0–2 years of engineering experience with a bachelor’s degree.
- Hands-on experience or coursework in satellite attitude and orbit control systems and basic orbital mechanics.
- Experience with physics-based modeling of dynamic systems and Monte Carlo simulation analysis.
- Software development experience in C/C++ and MATLAB/Simulink.
- Demonstrated technical acumen: apply engineering principles, organize work, and meet deadlines in evolving environments.
- Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills for effective team contribution.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively; adaptable to changing priorities and extended hours as needed.
- U.S. citizenship required. Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance is required.
Additional Details
- Location: Herndon, VA (primary work location; role lists telecommute capability)
- Employment type: Full-time
- Experience level: Entry (0–2 years)
- Salary range: $69,500 — $116,375 per year
- Travel: 0% – 25% as required
- Relocation assistance: Yes
- Clearance: Top Secret (ability to obtain/maintain required)
- U.S. citizenship: Required
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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