Guidance Navigation Controls (GNC) Engineer III/IV

Zone 5 Technologies · Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States · Engineering

Posted 2026-08-22

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We are currently looking for a GNC Engineer III/IV to join our software and flight test group in San Luis Obispo, CA. In this role, you'll play a crucial part in designing, analyzing, and building flight controls software for UAS. You will work closely with the engineering team to develop new software components, build models in Matlab/Simulink, run high-fidelity SW and HW in the loop simulations, and generate auto-code for embedded systems. Peer review and effective communication across disciplines are critical to improving the design cycle.

Responsibilities:

Design, analyze, and build flight controls software for groups 1 to 4 UAS

Develop software components for deployment to flight test

Create and modify software modules in the Zone 5 avionics suite

Perform controls analysis to assess stability and performance

Run high-fidelity SW and HW in the loop simulations

Generate auto-code for embedded systems

Design ground tests to verify the function of new features

Support integration and test of aircraft for flight test

Conduct peer reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

5+ years of experience in flight controls engineering for UAS

Proficiency in Matlab/Simulink

Strong problem-solving skills

Effective communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field

Experience with Group 1-4 UAS flight controls software design

Knowledge of embedded systems and auto-code generation

Ability to mentor and train junior engineers

Pay Range by Level for Fort Walton Beach, FL:

Level III - $131,000 - $158,000

Level IV - $158,000 - $188,000

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Pay range for this role

$131,000—$188,000 USD

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