At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead navigation for cutting-edge interceptors from concept to flight test.
- Company: Join Cambridge Aerospace, a fast-growing defence tech company.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, stock options, private medical, and cycle-to-work scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology and tackle global threats.
- Qualifications: GNC experience with missiles or high-speed aircraft and strong MATLAB skills.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
Job Location: Can be considered for Cambridge OR Munich
Overview
We are looking for a Senior GNC Engineer to own navigation for a new interceptor from early concept through sensor integration, real-time implementation, and flight test. You will define the navigation architecture and develop robust solutions for contested environments. Your work will influence systems design and interceptor performance across demanding flight regimes.
Responsibilities
- Shape the interceptor concept through navigation trade studies influencing system architecture, sensor selection and overall interceptor performance
- Own navigation architecture and algorithm development from concept through flight test
- Characterize sensor error models and implement calibration, alignment and fault‑detection logic
- Develop and tune state-estimation and sensor-fusion algorithms for guidance and control in high-dynamic flight
- Plan and support navigation simulation campaigns, ground tests, and flight trials
Requirements
- GNC experience in missiles, rockets or high-speed aircraft, including evidence of technical ownership for a GNC workstream
- Deep understanding of inertial navigation, observability, sensor error modelling, alignment and calibration
- Experience developing navigation solutions for degraded, spoofed or GNSS-denied environments
- Experience taking GNC work from concept into integration and test incorporating design assurance processes
- Strong MATLAB/Simulink skills and working knowledge of Python, C/C++, or similar
Preferred Qualifications/Experience
- Experience in fast-paced R&D or startup environments, with rapid prototype iteration times
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and stock options
- Private Medical & Dental
- Cycle to work scheme
About Us
The mission of Cambridge Aerospace is to eliminate the risk of existential war in Europe. That risk comes from the air – low-cost drones and cruise missiles now manufactured in colossal volumes by our adversaries, ballistic missiles capable of ending the world as we know it, and a new generation of hypersonic weapons that evade every existing defence. We’re building low-cost interceptors that defeat these threats, and the surveillance systems to detect and target them – at a cost taxpayers can afford, at the pace the threat demands, and with sovereign supply chains that assure delivery. We have immense backing from the world’s best venture funds. We’re one of the fastest growing defence technology companies in history. And we’re hiring the best engineers to prosecute the mission. If you are in the top 1%, willing to work harder than you ever have, build technology better than anyone else, and contribute to the defining challenge of our time, now is the time to join us.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Senior GNC Engineer – Navigation in Cambridge employer: Cambridge Aerospace
Cambridge Aerospace is an exceptional employer for a Senior GNC Engineer, offering a dynamic work environment in either Cambridge or Munich. With competitive compensation, stock options, and a commitment to employee growth through challenging projects in cutting-edge defence technology, we foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Join us to make a meaningful impact on global security while enjoying benefits like private medical and dental care, and a cycle to work scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior GNC Engineer – Navigation in Cambridge
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Cambridge Aerospace for a Senior GNC Engineer – Navigation. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior GNC Engineer – Navigation in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Cambridge Aerospace, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Cambridge Aerospace, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Aerospace
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Cambridge Aerospace.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Cambridge Aerospace. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Cambridge Aerospace love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
