Passionate about aerospace innovation? LTA is hiring a GNC Engineer to join our mission of building the next generation of airships. We move fast, prototype even faster, and believe that the best way to learn is by doing. You’ll be a core part of a dynamic team that owns the dynamics and controls modeling for experimental vehicles as well as the subscale model flight program. If you’re a "build a little, test a little" type of engineer who wants to see their work take flight, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities and Duties
Flight Control Systems: Design, develop, and verify flight-control algorithms and software for fly-by-wire "lighter than air" vehicles.Modeling & Simulation: Develop linear and non-linear vehicle dynamics and environmental models to ensure flight performance requirements are met.System Integration: Integrate complex models into Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulation environments.Analysis: Build performance and stability analysis tools to validate controller robustness.Flight Testing: Analyze flight test data and provide on-site support for both subscale models and full-scale experimental vehicle testing.Cross-Functional Innovation: Utilize a diverse tool set—including robotic arms, drones, and HIL rigs—to solve unique testing challenges.
Qualifications and Skills
Education: BS or higher in Aerospace, Electrical, Computer, or Mechanical Engineering with a specialized focus on dynamics and controls.Experience: 2–6 years of experience in a GNC or flight controls role.Technical Proficiency: Expertise in MATLAB & Simulink for control system design.Proven experience implementing simulations based on rigid-body flight dynamics and physics, ideally with experience in HIL implementation.Solid grasp of linear and nonlinear control theories.Soft Skills: A proactive "self-starter" mindset with strong mathematical fundamentals and version control (Git) proficiency.
Desired Additional Skills
Programming: Proficiency in C and Python, specifically for embedded systems and time-critical applications.Advanced Control: Experience with state estimation (Kalman filtering) and MATLAB Embedded Coder. Experience with Monte Carlo simulation.Specialized Dynamics: Familiarity with the unique dynamics of airships, buoyant bodies, or submarines.Modern Tech: Exposure to Machine Learning applications within aerospace or robotics.Testing: Background in aerospace test engineering or working within multidisciplinary/international teams.
What We Offer!
Relocation assistanceExcellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurancesParental leaveGenerous PTO + 10 paid holidays401(k) matching up to 6%Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictionsMonthly wellness stipendMonthly cell phone stipendYearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your fieldFun events, swag, and the occasional airship rideAn opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
Compliance Requirements
Criminal background check clearanceDrug test clearance wherever applicable
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LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
