Principal Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) & Trajectory Analyst
AeroVironmentHuntsville, AL · full time · Principal
Listed on AeroVironment’s own careers site. You apply with them directly — we never stand between you and the employer.
What this role is
This role involves developing and analyzing guidance, navigation, and control systems for missile defense target vehicles used in DoD flight testing. You'll support trajectory analysis, modeling, and engineering activities for the Missile Defense Agency, working with specialized tools and collaborating across technical teams.
Our summary, not AeroVironment’s wording. The full posting is on their site.
Skills this role names
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What they ask for
Required
- Master's degree and 12+ years missile defense or DoD program experience, OR Bachelor's degree and 20+ years missile defense or DoD program experience
- Active DoD Secret security clearance
- US citizenship
- Understanding of aerodynamics, equations of motion, coordinate systems, vehicle dynamics, and guidance/navigation/control principles
- Missile trajectory analysis experience across coordinate frames and atmospheric regimes
- Satellite orbital mechanics and orbit propagation knowledge
- Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, Java, C#, or other programming languages
- Modeling and simulation tools experience (TAOS, STK)
- Strong oral and written communication
- Microsoft Office proficiency
Nice to have
- Familiarity with MDA and/or DoD programs and processes
- Experience in design, CAD, trajectory analysis, radar cross section signatures, or optical signatures
- Attention to detail and multitasking ability
- Ability to communicate technical information to diverse audiences