Senior Flight Software / GNC Engineer
TLDR
Develop high-fidelity flight dynamics simulations, design control laws, and sensor fusion for autonomous drones, bridging theory and real-world flight software.
Company Overview
We are a rapidly growing technology startup focused on delivering next-generation drones for security and safety applications. Our company vertically integrates hardware and software to create leading edge capabilities in the UAV space, with a focus on saving lives.
As a GNC Engineer, you will be joining the team responsible for the design, development, and implementation of algorithms that allow our vehicles to navigate complex environments and execute precise maneuvers. You will bridge the gap between theoretical flight physics and real-world software implementation, ensuring stability and performance across all flight regimes.
Key Responsibilities
Flight Dynamics Modeling: Develop high-fidelity 6-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) simulations to predict vehicle behavior.
Control Law Design: Design, tune, and analyze flight control laws using both Classical (PID, Root Locus, Bode) and Modern (LQR/LQG, H-infinity, State-Space) techniques.
Navigation & Estimation: Implement sensor fusion algorithms (e.g., Extended Kalman Filters) to provide accurate state estimates from IMU, GPS, and star tracker data.
Guidance Algorithms: Develop trajectory generation and path-planning logic for autonomous mission phases.
Performance Analysis: Conduct Monte Carlo simulations and Linear Stability Analysis (Gain/Phase margins) to ensure system robustness.
Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL): Support the integration of GNC software with flight hardware and sensors.
Required Qualifications
Education: Master’s or PhD in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (with a focus on Controls) and 5-10 YOE
Control Theory Mastery: Deep understanding of MIMO/SISO systems, frequency domain analysis, and Lyapunov stability.
Programming: Proficiency in Python or MATLAB/Simulink for modeling and C++ for flight software implementation.
Mathematics: Strong foundation in linear algebra, coordinate transformations (Quaternions, Euler angles), and orbital mechanics or aerodynamics.
Preferred Skills
Experience with simulation tools (JSBSim, Gazebo, etc)
Hands on experience with open-source autopilot
Experience with radar and rocket systems
Understanding of rocket GNC, aerodynamics, flight dynamics and controls
Understanding of computer vision, perception, filtering, and estimation
Benefits
Equity Compensation
Equity
Arxlight is a technology startup that builds next-generation drones for security and safety applications, integrating both hardware and software to enhance UAV capabilities. Our focus is on delivering advanced solutions that prioritize saving lives and supporting defense operations for both U.S. and international clients.