Junior / Senior GNC / AOCS Engineers

microTECH Global Limited; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace engineering firm is looking for Junior and Senior GNC/AOCS Engineers to support the full lifecycle of spacecraft control systems. This hybrid position offers an opportunity to work on the design, analysis, and validation of GNC/AOCS algorithms. Successful candidates will need a degree in a relevant field and experience in control systems. The role involves collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams and may include remote work options.

Qualifications

• Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Control Engineering, Physics, or similar.
• Strong understanding of control systems theory.
• Experience with GNC/AOCS concepts (e.g. attitude determination, control laws, orbit dynamics).
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink or similar modelling tools.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyse GNC/AOCS algorithms.
• Perform system-level analysis and simulations.
• Support AOCS architecture definition.
• Produce and maintain technical documentation.

Skills

Control systems theory

GNC/AOCS concepts

Problem-solving skills

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Control Engineering, Physics, or similar

Tools

MATLAB

Simulink

Job description

Junior and Senior GNC / AOCS Engineers

12-month contract (with potential extension)

Location

Hybrid (mix of remote and on-site working) - full remote available

Overview

We are seeking Junior and Senior Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) / Attitude and Orbit Control System (AOCS) Engineers to support the development, analysis, and validation of spacecraft control systems. This role will contribute across the full lifecycle of space missions, from concept and design through testing and operations.

Key Responsibilities

(Scope and autonomy will vary depending on junior or senior level)

• Design, develop, and analyse GNC/AOCS algorithms for spacecraft attitude and orbit control
• Perform system-level analysis and simulations to verify performance and stability
• Develop and maintain MATLAB/Simulink (or equivalent) models
• Support AOCS architecture definition, including sensors, actuators, and control laws
• Contribute to requirements definition, verification, and validation activities
• Support software implementation, testing, and debugging of GNC/AOCS functions
• Participate in system integration, test campaigns, and mission support activities
• Produce and maintain technical documentation and design reports
• Collaborate with systems, software, and hardware teams

Junior Engineer Responsibilities (Additional Focus)

• Support senior engineers in algorithm development and analysis
• Develop models, simulations, and test cases under guidance
• Learn and apply industry standards and best practices
• Assist with test execution and data analysis

Senior Engineer Responsibilities (Additional Focus)

• Lead GNC/AOCS design activities and technical decision-making
• Own subsystem requirements, interfaces, and verification strategies
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical oversight
• Act as a key technical point of contact with stakeholders and customers

Required Skills & Experience

Essential (All Levels)

• Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Control Engineering, Physics, or similar
• Strong understanding of control systems theory
• Experience with GNC/AOCS concepts (e.g. attitude determination, control laws, orbit dynamics)
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink or similar modelling tools
• Good problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team

Junior Level

• 0–3 years of relevant experience (or strong academic background)
• Familiarity with spacecraft dynamics and control concepts
• Eagerness to learn and develop technical expertise

Senior Level

• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in GNC/AOCS engineering
• Proven experience delivering GNC/AOCS solutions for spacecraft or similar complex systems
• Experience across design, verification, and operational support
• Ability to lead technical activities independently

Desirable Skills

• Experience with LEO/MEO/GEO spacecraft, launch vehicles, or similar systems
• Knowledge of flight software development (C/C++, Python, or equivalent)
• Experience with hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HIL) or real‑time simulations
• Familiarity with ECSS or similar space standards
• Experience supporting in-orbit operations