Head of GNC

Head of Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC)

We’re supporting a high-growth organisation within the space and launch sector as they appoint a senior Head of GNC to lead a critical engineering function.

This is a senior technical leadership role covering GNC strategy, architecture, technical delivery and team development across advanced flight systems.

The Role

• Own the GNC technical strategy and architecture
• Lead guidance, navigation, estimation, control and flight-dynamics development
• Take systems from concept through integration, testing and flight
• Build, lead and develop a high-performing GNC team
• Drive simulation, modelling, Monte Carlo, SIL/HIL and verification
• Work closely with systems, flight software, avionics, propulsion and vehicle engineering
• Provide technical authority on major architecture and design decisions
• Support programme reviews and senior technical engagements
• Help shape future spacecraft and/or launch vehicle programmes

We're keen to speak with senior GNC leaders who have space-sector experience , with experience in launch vehicles highly desirable .

Relevant backgrounds include:

• Launch vehicles / reusable launch systems
• Defence & national security space
• Rendezvous, proximity operations or formation flying
• Flight dynamics and orbital mechanics

Ideal Background

• Strong experience in GNC, controls, navigation or flight dynamics
• Space industry experience preferred
• Launch vehicle experience highly desirable
• Strong understanding of control, estimation, navigation and dynamics
• Experience taking systems through integration, testing and ideally flight
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++ or similar
• Proven technical leadership and team-building experience

$250,000 – $350,000+ base salary , depending on experience and scope, plus potential bonus, equity and benefits .

Certain programmes may require U.S. citizenship/person status, export-control eligibility and/or security clearance eligibility.

If you're a senior GNC leader within the space sector , particularly with launch vehicle experience, and open to a confidential conversation about a senior opportunity in Los Angeles, I’d be keen to speak.