Job description
ATMOS Space Cargo is seeking an experienced GNC Lead Engineer to lead the development, integration and validation of Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) systems for our reusable PHOENIX orbital transfer and return vehicles. In this role, you will take ownership of GNC architecture, algorithms and subsystem development, ensuring reliable spacecraft performance throughout orbital operations, re-entry and recovery. Working closely with our multidisciplinary engineering teams, you will lead the GNC team and drive development from initial design through testing, integration and flight readiness.
Key responsibilities
- You will lead the GNC engineering team in developing, testing and integrating GNC systems and subsystems
- You will drive the development and validation of GNC algorithms and software for spacecraft attitude and trajectory control
- You will define GNC system requirements, architecture, interfaces and performance metrics
- You will develop and oversee simulations, including 6-DOF modelling, Monte Carlo analyses and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing
- You will select GNC hardware components, evaluate technical specifications and coordinate procurement with relevant teams
- You will collaborate closely with Systems Engineering, Avionics, Flight Software and Propulsion teams to ensure seamless subsystem integration
- You will oversee GNC hardware and software integration, system-level functional testing and verification activities
Profile required
- Master's degree in aerospace engineering, control engineering or a comparable technical field
- At least 5 years of professional experience in GNC development for spacecraft, launch vehicles or re-entry systems
- Proven experience in developing and validating GNC algorithms, architectures and subsystems for space applications
- Strong expertise in flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, control theory, state estimation and numerical simulation
- Advanced proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink, Python and C/C++
- Hands-on experience with GNC hardware integration, simulation, verification and HIL testing
- Experience in technical leadership and cross-functional engineering coordination
- Strong command of English
Preferred qualifications
- Experience with re-entry vehicles or autonomous spacecraft operations
- Knowledge of space mission operations
- Understanding the ECSS and its role in the development process
Company description
ATMOS was founded as a European company built on the values of freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights. We are committed to protect these values by making our technology available to others who share the same values, strengthening infrastructure and innovation for prosperity on Earth.
Our team is multinational and diverse, with offices in Lichtenau and Strasbourg. We work in a collegial, hands-on culture where people support each other, take ownership, and keep learning every day. Motivation for the mission comes first — building spacecraft is not a nine-to-five pursuit. We align the mission, the team, and the individual in mutual dependence. This principle shapes our work environment where exceptional people, as committed as they are competent, can grow and contribute to a mission that matters.
On 10/15/2026
