YOUR MISSION

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the research, design, implementation, and optimization of advanced spacecraft algorithms including RPO, autonomous decision-making, state estimation, and computer vision.
• Develop and maintain the technical roadmap for autonomy and algorithmic capabilities in alignment with spacecraft program and mission objectives.
• Oversee rigorous algorithm verification and validation processes, including Monte-Carlo analysis, SIL/HIL testing, and scenario-based performance evaluation.
• Collaborate closely with GNC, avionics, flight software, simulation, and mission operations teams to ensure seamless integration of algorithms into spacecraft systems.
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of algorithm engineers specializing in estimation, control, CV/ML, and autonomy.
• Own the development and maintenance of modeling, simulation, and data infrastructure required for prototyping, training, and evaluating algorithmic solutions.
• Establish and enforce best practices for code quality, documentation, peer review, and reproducible research in safety-critical algorithm development.
• Assess emerging algorithmic and ML/AI techniques and guide the maturation of promising technologies into flight-ready capabilities.
• Translate mission and program requirements into clear algorithmic specifications and support technical reviews, audits, and flight certification milestones.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics AI/ML or a related field (Masters preferred).
• 8–12+ years of experience in AI/ML, including hands-on work with embedded systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams and delivering complex algorithmic solutions for safety-critical or real-time embedded systems.
• Experience with Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO) missions activities and the space environment.
• Strong proficiency in numerical methods, optimization, probabilistic reasoning, and modern estimation techniques (e.g., EKF/UKF, nonlinear filtering).
• Hands-on expertise with simulation tools, modeling environments, and algorithm development in languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB/Simulink.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally with hardware, software, and mission teams to integrate algorithms into operational systems.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance (active clearance preferred).

COMPENSATION

• Colorado Base Salary: $175,000-$240,000
• California Base Salary: $180,000-$255,000
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location—this will be a fully onsite opportunity based out of either our Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA offices.
• Work environment—the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
• Physical demands—the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite