GNC Engineer

Description

Location: Lenexa, Kansas (Onsite). Relocation assistance may be provided.

GuideTech is seeking a full-time GNC engineer to take projects from simulation to flight, and lead the testing that proves they work.

As a Modeling, Simulation & GNC Engineer at GuideTech, you will develop high-fidelity vehicle models, implement GNC algorithms, and serve as the technical “showrunner” for flight-test campaigns. You'll own the technical execution of flight testing, from defining objectives and coordinating readiness to monitoring vehicle performance, resolving anomalies, and using flight data to improve system performance.

GuideTech is a subsidiary of Palladyne AI (NASDAQ: PDYN), a U.S.-based defense and industrial technology company that delivers embodied AI-powered collaborative autonomy solutions, advanced avionics, precision-manufactured components, UAVs, and advanced aerospace design services. Learn more at https://guide.tech/. 

You'll contribute to advanced aerospace and autonomous systems, including unmanned aircraft, launch vehicles, spacecraft, and missiles. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex GNC challenges and taking ownership from initial design through real-world flight verification.

What You'll Do

• Lead flight-test campaigns by coordinating test objectives, schedules, engineering teams, hardware readiness, risks, and execution.
• Define flight-test maneuvers, operating conditions, and performance criteria to validate GNC systems.
• Monitor flight telemetry and compare actual vehicle behavior against simulation predictions.
• Lead anomaly investigations, coordinate corrective actions, and support technical readiness for subsequent flights.
• Analyze post-flight data to calibrate models, refine GNC algorithms, and improve simulation accuracy.
• Develop high-fidelity aerospace vehicle dynamics models and simulations.
• Design, implement, and validate GNC algorithms for simulation and flight software.
• Conduct trade studies, verify system performance, and collaborate with aerodynamics, propulsion, software, and systems engineering teams.
• Document test results, technical findings, and recommendations.

What Makes Someone Successful Here

• You take ownership from design through flight testing.
• You coordinate teams and technical activities effectively.
• You remain analytical and decisive when unexpected issues arise.
• You connect simulation results with real-world vehicle behavior.
• You communicate clearly and solve problems across engineering disciplines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 4+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience modeling aerospace vehicle dynamics and control systems.
• Experience implementing GNC algorithms in simulation and flight software.
• Experience with simulation-based trade studies, performance analysis, and verification and validation testing.
• Familiarity with C++.
• Ability to analyze technical data, troubleshoot system performance, and document findings.
• Strong cross-functional engineering collaboration and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience planning, coordinating, or executing aerospace flight tests.
• Experience monitoring flight telemetry and analyzing GNC performance.
• Experience investigating flight anomalies and implementing corrective actions.
• Experience calibrating simulation models using real-world flight data.

Location

This position is on-site in Lenexa, Kansas, within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Relocation assistance may be provided.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Professional development opportunities

Work Authorization & Clearance

This position requires the ability to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship. Depending on the nature of the work, the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance may be required. Candidates may be asked to provide additional information relevant to clearance eligibility in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

The Fine Print

No third-party candidates will be accepted. Palladyne AI is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.