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GNC Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design and implement the systems that guide, navigate, and control spacecraft. A critical role in ensuring mission success and precision.

Open roles
2
Salary range
£40k – £145k
Hiring companies
1
View 2 live roles → Get an alert

GNC Engineers are the architects of spacecraft movement and positioning. They design, develop, and test the systems that ensure spacecraft travel accurately and safely to their destinations. In the UK space sector, GNC Engineers work on a wide range of projects, from satellite constellations to interplanetary missions. These roles are often found in aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies, where precision and reliability are paramount.

What the role does

Inside the role of a GNC Engineer

A typical week for a GNC Engineer is a mix of design, simulation, and testing, with a focus on ensuring the spacecraft's navigation and control systems meet mission requirements.

  1. 01
    Conduct simulations to test navigation algorithms.
  2. 02
    Analyse data from recent tests and simulations.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate GNC systems.
  4. 04
    Document and report on system performance and issues.
  5. 05
    Attend project meetings to discuss progress and challenges.
  6. 06
    Review and update design specifications and requirements.
Salary on the board

£40k – £145k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 7 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
44% of listings advertise a salary.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 6 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Python
67%
C++
50%
Simulink
33%
Orbital Mechanics
33%
Spacecraft Dynamics
33%
Kalman Filtering
33%
Sensor Fusion
33%
Control Systems
33%
MATLAB
33%
Simulation
33%
Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) Testing
33%
AOCS
17%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for gnc engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior GNC Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assists in the design and testing of GNC systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    GNC Engineer

    3–5 yrs

    Takes ownership of specific GNC system components, leading small teams and contributing to project planning.

  3. Level 3

    Senior GNC Engineer

    6–10 yrs

    Leads the design and implementation of complex GNC systems, managing larger teams and interfacing with clients and stakeholders.

  4. Level 4

    Principal GNC Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversees multiple GNC projects, providing strategic direction and technical leadership, and influencing industry standards and practices.

Pathway

How to become a GNC Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.

  2. 2

    Entry-Level Experience

    Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level roles in the aerospace industry.

  3. 3

    Specialisation in GNC

    Focus on GNC systems through specialised courses, certifications, and hands-on projects.

  4. 4

    Mid-Level Roles

    Take on more responsibility by leading specific GNC system components and managing small teams.

  5. 5

    Senior Leadership

    Advance to senior roles, overseeing entire GNC systems and leading larger teams.

  6. 6

    Strategic Leadership

    Achieve the highest levels of leadership, influencing industry standards and driving innovation in GNC technology.

Live jobs

2 live roles

GNC Systems Engineer

This role involves contributing to the design, development, and verification of GNC systems for complex satellite missions. Responsibilities include developing GNC subsystem requirements, integrating GNC algorithms and hardware, and conducting research into emerging GNC technologies. The position also involves working with multidisciplinary teams and supporting mission operations.

Holt Executive Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £40,000 – £70,000 pa

GNC Algorithms Engineer

Design and develop guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for spacecraft systems, spanning the full lifecycle from simulation and modelling to flight software integration and verification. Work on autonomous navigation, attitude control, and rendezvous operations within a multidisciplinary team. Utilise high-fidelity simulations and tools like MATLAB/Simulink and Python to deliver robust, flight-ready GNC solutions.

Holt Executive Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £40,000 – £70,000 pa
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Specialised courses and certifications in GNC systems are also beneficial.

  • Key skills include strong mathematical and analytical abilities, proficiency in simulation software, and excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

  • GNC Engineers work in a variety of settings, including aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams and may work on-site or remotely.

  • Career progression typically starts with entry-level roles, moves through mid-level positions with increasing responsibility, and culminates in senior leadership roles overseeing entire GNC systems.

  • Salary ranges can vary based on experience, location, and employer. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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