Guidance Navigation and Control Manager
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
Responsibilities
Job ID: 719415BR Date posted: Mar. 02, 2026
Description:About Lockheed Martin Space:
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security, and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more — we can innovate, invest, inspire, and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We’re creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security® vision. We’re erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We’re advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we’re reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you
About the Role:
As the GNC Lead for Space Development Agency (SDA) Programs you will establish the guidance, navigation, and control solution for one of our country's most vital and complex Space Systems. You will serve as a technical lead for the Guidance Navigation & and Control design & analysis engineering activities. SDA provides several programs that cover tactical communications, as well as missile launch warning and tracking capabilities for the US Government.
In this role, you will:
• Lead engineers supporting GNC algorithm development and test activities, associated IRAD, and concept studies across the program.
• Provide management oversight to all GNC planning, requirements generation, software verification & validation activities, and pre and post-test support
• Serve as a liaison with other engineering disciplines and lines of business as appropriate, corporate contact, and execution of enterprise and corporate initiatives
• Collaborate with the software team to develop flight-worthy code based on GNC algorithm prototypes
• Use your excellent communication skills to work across the Lockheed Martin organization and customer/user community to ensure consensus and understanding of GNC performance
• Support and lead teams providing technical expertise in launching and maintaining large operational constellations
• Develop and create innovative solutions for special studies, proposals, and even support efforts beyond SDA missions
Successful applicants generally have at least 8+ years of related experience and may have a post-secondary degree or training in a related discipline, such as Aerospace Engineering or other related field.
Basic Qualifications:
Skill Requirements:
• Experience leading small teams, coordinating tasking, budgets, and schedules.
• Broad technical skills including rigid body dynamics, control theory, and computer programming.
• Experience supporting the development of flight vehicle GNC architectures,
• Experience planning and conducting GNC performance and simulation analysis
• Strong team collaboration, communication, and presentation skills
• BS in engineering
Security Clearance / Work Authorization:
• To meet requirements of the program/customer, this position requires the selected employee to be a U.S. Citizen.
• Although not required to start, selected candidates will be required to obtain a government issued Top Secret clearance for long term employment on this program.
Desired Skills:
• Related Program or Project experience
• Experience leading technical teams and coordinating work to achieve a common goal
• Proficiency in the following engineering tools: MATLAB, Simulink, with exposure to C/C++, Python
• Experience with 6-Degree of Freedom (6DOF) simulations and physics-based modeling
• Demonstrated experience with analysis of feedback control systems, closed loop guidance, or navigation algorithms.
• Experience with model-based software development using Simulink (autocoding)
• Experience developing robust flight software from GNC algorithm prototypes
• Recognized as an authority in Guidance Navigation & Control algorithms with the demonstrated ability to apply them to a wide range of complex problems and train others in their application
• Demonstrated experience in the requirements generation, design, integration, qualification, verification, and validation of Guidance Navigation & Control algorithms
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong social skills, and ability to build consensus among peers while building solid relationships with team members
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
• Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant Dynamics and Controls coursework
Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.
Clearance Level: Top Secret
Other Important Information You Should Know
Expression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.
Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
Schedule for this Position: 9x80 every other Friday off
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $145,200 - $255,990. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate’s final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you’re invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Experience Level: Experienced Professional
Business Unit: SPACE
Relocation Available: Possible
Career Area: Guidance, Navigation and Control
Type: Full-Time
Shift: First
Apply Now
Description:About Lockheed Martin Space:
Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security, and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more — we can innovate, invest, inspire, and integrate our capabilities to transform the future.
At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve. We’re creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security® vision. We’re erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We’re advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we’re reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity.
Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you
About the Role:
As the GNC Lead for Space Development Agency (SDA) Programs you will establish the guidance, navigation, and control solution for one of our country's most vital and complex Space Systems. You will serve as a technical lead for the Guidance Navigation & and Control design & analysis engineering activities. SDA provides several programs that cover tactical communications, as well as missile launch warning and tracking capabilities for the US Government.
In this role, you will:
• Lead engineers supporting GNC algorithm development and test activities, associated IRAD, and concept studies across the program.
• Provide management oversight to all GNC planning, requirements generation, software verification & validation activities, and pre and post-test support
• Serve as a liaison with other engineering disciplines and lines of business as appropriate, corporate contact, and execution of enterprise and corporate initiatives
• Collaborate with the software team to develop flight-worthy code based on GNC algorithm prototypes
• Use your excellent communication skills to work across the Lockheed Martin organization and customer/user community to ensure consensus and understanding of GNC performance
• Support and lead teams providing technical expertise in launching and maintaining large operational constellations
• Develop and create innovative solutions for special studies, proposals, and even support efforts beyond SDA missions
Successful applicants generally have at least 8+ years of related experience and may have a post-secondary degree or training in a related discipline, such as Aerospace Engineering or other related field.
Basic Qualifications:
Skill Requirements:
• Experience leading small teams, coordinating tasking, budgets, and schedules.
• Broad technical skills including rigid body dynamics, control theory, and computer programming.
• Experience supporting the development of flight vehicle GNC architectures,
• Experience planning and conducting GNC performance and simulation analysis
• Strong team collaboration, communication, and presentation skills
• BS in engineering
Security Clearance / Work Authorization:
• To meet requirements of the program/customer, this position requires the selected employee to be a U.S. Citizen.
• Although not required to start, selected candidates will be required to obtain a government issued Top Secret clearance for long term employment on this program.
Desired Skills:
• Related Program or Project experience
• Experience leading technical teams and coordinating work to achieve a common goal
• Proficiency in the following engineering tools: MATLAB, Simulink, with exposure to C/C++, Python
• Experience with 6-Degree of Freedom (6DOF) simulations and physics-based modeling
• Demonstrated experience with analysis of feedback control systems, closed loop guidance, or navigation algorithms.
• Experience with model-based software development using Simulink (autocoding)
• Experience developing robust flight software from GNC algorithm prototypes
• Recognized as an authority in Guidance Navigation & Control algorithms with the demonstrated ability to apply them to a wide range of complex problems and train others in their application
• Demonstrated experience in the requirements generation, design, integration, qualification, verification, and validation of Guidance Navigation & Control algorithms
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong social skills, and ability to build consensus among peers while building solid relationships with team members
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment
• Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant Dynamics and Controls coursework
Security Clearance Statement: This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.
Clearance Level: Top Secret
Other Important Information You Should Know
Expression of Interest: By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Ability to Work Remotely: Onsite Full-time: The work associated with this position will be performed onsite at a designated Lockheed Martin facility.
Work Schedules: Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
Schedule for this Position: 9x80 every other Friday off
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $145,200 - $255,990. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate’s final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you’re invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Experience Level: Experienced Professional
Business Unit: SPACE
Relocation Available: Possible
Career Area: Guidance, Navigation and Control
Type: Full-Time
Shift: First
About
At Lockheed Martin, we apply our passion for purposeful innovation to keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges.
Pioneering Defense Technology: From aerospace to outer space to cyber space, you can innovate mission solutions alongside the best minds in the business.
United By Culture: Excellence, integrity, and collaboration define us. We accelerate change and embrace one another’s perspectives to win for our customers.
Real Impact, Real Growth: Grow your career and skills for life. Our wide array of opportunities and technology-driven learning programs enable your development and agility.
Your Health, Your Wealth, Your Life: Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits and flexible schedules designed so you thrive — at work and beyond.
Empowered to Be Your Best: Use your strengths to make a difference in the lives of one another, our customers, our communities, and our planet.
Here, the possibilities are endless because we offer:
- Flexible Schedules, dependent on role
- Levels: Student, Entry, Mid, Senior, Management
- Locations: Nationwide & OCONUS Positions
Qualifications
What does a successful GNC employee at Lockheed Martin look like?
Check out the info below to see if you have what it takes.
- Collaborative
- Imaginative
- Problem-solver
- Results-driven
- Team player
- Technologically savvy
Quote
The work so far has been challenging and varied. Overall, it’s been a great job; The people, environment, and benefits are fantastic on top of the work itself.
Tim J.
Benefits
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Healthcare
Medical, Dental and Vision coverage is available for employees who opt-in.
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401k/Retirement Plans
Our 401(k) plan features generous matching and company contributions.
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Professional Development
We support our employees through mentoring, internal & external educational programs, networking, skills enhancement and career-building programs.
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Maternity and Paternity Leave
Our generous parental leave policies support your journey into parenthood. When you return to work, our facilities offer mother's rooms to support your transition and work/life balance.
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Paid Time Off
We offer PTO, paid holidays and paid time off for jury duty and military obligations.
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Flex-time
Depending on position, we offer a flexible work schedule.