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Guidance Navigation & Controls Engineer (Senior-Level)

Cimarron
El Segundo, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 9/19/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/20/2026
Posting/External Job Title

Guidance Navigation & Controls Engineer (Senior-Level)

Location

El Segundo, CA 90245 US (Primary)
Seal Beach, CA 90740 US

Remote/Onsite/Hybrid

100% Onsite

Job Type

Full-time

# of Hires Needed

1

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Travel

None

Security Clearance Required

TS/SCI

Pay Range (All offers will be based on experience)

$180,000.00 - $280,000.00/yr

Position Introduction/Key Duties

Cimarron is seeking a senior-level Guidance Navigation & Controls Engineer to rapidly prototype, develop, and field novel space and hypersonic capabilities. ESG delivers first-of-kind solutions for customers in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment. You will design GN&C algorithms, build high-fidelity simulations, implement and test flight software, and support integration and flight test in both atmospheric and space.

Key Duties:
  • Design, implement, and verify guidance, navigation, and control algorithms for spacecraft, re-entry vehicles, and hypersonic/airborne platforms.
  • Develop and maintain 6-DOF dynamics simulations and associated analysis tools for mission and performance assessment.
  • Implement and validate GN&C flight software (MATLAB/Simulink models and C/C prototypes) and integrate with testbeds and avionics.
  • Apply astrodynamics and flight mechanics to mission design, novel orbit concepts, and trajectory optimization.
  • Apply aerodynamics, atmospheric flight mechanics, and controls knowledge to support the design of re-entry guidance, navigation, and flight control functions
  • Develop powered and unpowered guidance laws and autonomy tools for on-orbit and atmospheric operations.
  • Support troubleshooting of operational anomalies, functional tests, and service incidents.
  • Produce concepts of operations, simulation artifacts, and test procedures to enable rapid iteration from prototype to flight test.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems engineering, avionics, test, and business development) and communicate technical tradeoffs to stakeholders.
  • Independently identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and implement reusable tools and automations.

Required/Desired Skills, Experience, and Education

Required Skills, Experience, and Education:
  • Ability to complete a pre-employment background check and drug screening, which will include, but is not limited to, testing for marijuana use.
  • This position requires access to federal facilities. Candidates must possess a valid, unexpired Real ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued identification card at the time of hire. If you are unsure whether your ID is Real ID-compliant, please check for the star symbol in the upper portion of your driver's license or state ID.
  • Must have an active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • 11 or more years of related work experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience (Ex. PhD, Master's 3 or more years' related work experience).
  • Engineering experience with aircraft, missile, spacecraft, autonomous platform or similar vehicles.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Proficiency developing GN&C algorithms, models and simulations.
  • Experience developing with C/C , Python or C#.
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.

Desired Skills, Experience, and Education:
  • Degree in aerospace/aeronautical engineering (BS/MS/PhD).
  • 15 or more years related technical experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Active Tier 5 (T5) Clearance, formerly known as Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) is Preferred.
  • Experience with spacecraft operations, space environment effects, or hypersonic re-entry GN&C.
  • Familiarity with state estimation and sensor fusion (e.g., Kalman filters), GPS/INS, or air data systems.
  • Background in classical and modern control theory and nonlinear control design.
  • Model-based development experience and flight test support.
  • Prior work on space or hypersonic programs.
  • Ability to work effectively in broad, minimally defined design spaces and to communicate technical results clearly.

Business Profile:

Cimarron is a global solutions company with a strategic partnering approach to satisfying customer-driven requirements. We ensure customer success with a modern approach and experienced leadership. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Cimarron is fueled by highly skilled employees, developing new innovative technologies, and delivering superior products and services. We believe in recognizing employees' worth by offering competitive salaries and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) contributions, educational reimbursement, and much more. From company communication through Company-wide information meetings led by our President and CEO, to an Awards program designed to recognize our amazing employees and their accomplishments, you will not only feel like you are a part of a team, you will be a valued member of the Cimarron family. Cimarron is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Resumes should list employment dates in month/year format (e.g., January 2020 - March 2024) for each position to meet customer and contract documentation requirements.

Salary : $180,000 - $280,000

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