Description
Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer
Location: San Diego, CA
Department: Engineering
Location Type: IN_OFFICE
Employment Type: FULL_TIME
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we're building toward a future defined by incontestable defense logistics. That means equipping warfighters with mission-critical capabilities at the point of need. Not in months, not from a depot halfway around the world, but now, in the field, on demand.
We're a VC-backed defense technology company pioneering an expeditionary manufacturing ecosystem that produces and sustains modular, mission-adaptable unmanned systems, parts and components for repair and sustainment, and the software to transform point solutions into a network of strategic assets.
We're building a team of engineers, operators, and problem-solvers who believe the future of deterrence cannot rely only on expensive, exquisite platforms made in centralized factories. We build and field affordable systems using distributed production capabilities at the edge. If you want to solve challenging problems that will reshape the future of defense, you're in the right place.
About the Role
At Firestorm, we are building autonomous aerial systems that operate where they are needed most, when they are needed most. Our mission requires speed, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to engineering excellence. We move fast, test constantly, and deliver capability that performs in the real world, not just in simulation.
We are looking for a Controls Engineer who is excited to build, test, and deliver high-performance autonomous flight systems. You will own the design, implementation, and validation of flight-control algorithms for our Unmanned Autonomous Systems, blending deep control-systems expertise with startup-level ownership and hands-on testing. You will architect control solutions, build and refine models and simulations, and drive flight-test workflows from first flight through rapid iteration. This is not a theory-only role. You will see your work fly, assess real-world behavior, tune performance in the loop, and directly influence vehicle capability. You will help define technical standards, contribute to a high-integrity engineering culture, and shape how autonomy is deployed in demanding operational environments.
If you want to build systems that matter, own your work end to end, and be part of a team that values bold thinking grounded in rigorous engineering, Firestorm is the place to do it.
What You’ll Do
- Define control-system architecture and requirements for fixed-wing and autonomous aircraft, including primary flight control, energy management, and mode logic
- Design and implement control and estimation algorithms that account for actuator limits, sensor noise, timing, and real-world system constraints
- Model dynamical systems, develop accurate plant models, and validate them using flight-test data and simulation environments
- Lead system identification and aerodynamic model refinement based on real flight data
- Develop robust, fault-tolerant, and graceful-degradation control strategies for reliable autonomous operation
- Use simulation, SIL and HIL testing, Monte Carlo analysis, and system-performance tools to verify and validate flight-control and estimation software
- Design and execute flight-test plans, analyze telemetry and logs, tune controllers, and rapidly iterate based on real-world performance
- Integrate navigation and estimator outputs, including GPS-denied or alternative navigation solutions, into control architectures
- Collaborate closely with autonomy, avionics, embedded software, and flight-test teams to ensure seamless full-system performance
- Participate in system design reviews, safety assessments, and documentation to support high-integrity engineering practices
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues across simulation, ground testing, and flight operations
- Contribute to technical standards, code reviews, and continuous improvement in controls and GNC development processes
- Stay current with advances in controls, GNC, robotics, and autonomous systems and apply new techniques where beneficial
- Take ownership from concept through deployment in a startup environment where speed, rigor, flight testing, and accountability matter
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle GNC development, simulation, & applied controls
- Experience building and tuning control systems for robotics, autonomy, or flight vehicles
- Proficiency in C++, Python, and MATLAB or Octave
- Strong foundation in classical and modern control theory
- Experience with system modeling and test-based validation
- Ability to evaluate flight data, debug issues, and communicate findings across teams
- Excellent communication and documentation skills
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations
Preferred Qualifications
- Masters degree or Ph.D in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle GNC development, simulation, & applied controls
- High proficiency in C or C++, Python, and MATLAB or Simulink or Octave
- Experience with estimator development such as EKF, UKF, or complementary filters
- Experience with GPS-denied or alternate navigation technologies
- Hands-on development on PX4 or ArduPilot or ArduPlane platforms
- Experience running flight-test campaigns and tuning flight controllers
- Experience flying RC fixed-wing aircraft
- Ability to clearly communicate control-system concepts to engineers outside your discipline
Work Environment
- Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate
- Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs. and wear appropriate PPE [as required]
- Willingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations
- Ability to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed
Compensation
US Salary Range: $112,000 - $165,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] so we can provide the support you need.
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