The Aerospace Corporation · 14 hours ago
2026 Guidance and Navigation Engineer
El Segundo, CA
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry Level
$100K/yr - $140K/yr
0+ years expThe Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. The Guidance and Navigation Engineer will provide guidance and navigation support for launch vehicle, missile, and missile defense systems for various customers, including the Space Force’s Space Systems Command and NASA.
AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Performing engineering analyses of launch and upper-stage vehicle guidance and navigation systems, including the performance of guidance algorithms and use of inertial systems, GPS, and other sensors
Performing trajectory studies and conduct error and orbital perturbation analyses
Performing statistical analyses of launch vehicle trajectories, vehicle maneuvers, and targeting accuracy
Developing mathematical models and high-fidelity computational simulations of launch vehicles from fundamental principles of dynamics and physics
Developing computational tools, such as 6 degree-of-freedom simulations, to analyze the performance of launch vehicle guidance and navigation systems
Supporting multiple programs and work both independently and with interdisciplinary teams
Studying and evaluating current and future launch vehicle GNC system designs and algorithms
Prepare technical reports and briefings to be presented to other analysts and management
Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
Qualification
Required
Master's degree from an accredited college/university program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
0-1 year of industry work experience
Knowledge of trajectory performance, orbital mechanics, control systems, and/or navigation sensors
Some experience modeling dynamic systems
Proficiency with some of the following tools: Python, MATLAB, C++, Fortran
Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site (domestically/internationally), as required
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts
Strong written and oral communication skills
Must work well in a team environment
Possess organizational, time management and project management skills
Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need
Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
Preferred
Ph.D. degree from an accredited college/university program in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
Experience in Guidance, Navigation, Control Systems, Computer Engineering, or a related field
A working knowledge of electronics, mechanical design, control systems, inertial sensors, and actuators applicable to spacecraft and/or launch vehicles
Expertise in modeling and simulation of spacecraft or launch vehicles
Demonstrated ability to provide innovative solutions to challenging technical problems
Benefits
Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
Company
The Aerospace Corporation
As the government’s preeminent space innovation partner, Aerospace brings technical expertise to advance the nation's missions in space.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Tanya Pemberton
President & CEO
Ashley Kowalski
Project Leader - International Partnerships
Recent News
2026-02-05
2026-02-05
Washington Technology
2026-01-12
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