UK - Guidance Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Job Title: Guidance Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer

Location: UK - Bristol (Hybrid)

Type: Full Time Employment

Help us make a difference

In 2005, MARSS began as a simple concept for an autonomous vessel docking system. Since then, the company has expanded rapidly, evolving into a successful global tech solution provider protecting lives, infrastructure, and assets worldwide.

Our core platform, NiDAR Core, integrates IoT sensors and hybrid intelligence to provide 360 situational awareness and surveillance, enhancing defense, security, and safety.

MARSSians take pride in developing innovative solutions to address emerging threats, working closely with customers to solve specific problems without compromising quality.

We are committed to creating efficient, intuitive solutions that make the world safer and smarter.

Headquartered in Monaco with offices in London, Bristol, and Riyadh, MARSS is expanding globally. To support this growth, we seek key contributors capable of impacting our success.

Our environment fosters creativity, continuous learning, and individual responsibility, combining the agility of startups with the support of a global organization.

Position

This role involves designing, developing, and implementing next-generation targeting algorithms for autonomous drones. The ideal candidate will be a specialist in control strategies for agile aerial platforms.

Main Responsibilities

1. Algorithm Development: Design and implement advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms, focusing on skid-to-turn (STT) control for high-maneuverability and precise targeting.
2. Behavioral Logic: Develop complex mission logic, tactical decisions, and targeting sequences using Behavior Trees.
3. Prototyping & Simulation: Rapidly prototype, simulate, and validate algorithms using Python and scientific libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib).
4. System Integration: Integrate, test, and deploy GNC software on hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testbeds and flight hardware with PX4 autopilot stack.
5. Performance Analysis: Analyze simulation and flight data to refine algorithm robustness and reliability in dynamic environments.

Requirements

1. Educational Background: Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related field; Master's or PhD preferred.
2. STT Specialism: Deep knowledge of skid-to-turn guidance and control, including kinematics and control laws such as lateral acceleration commands.
3. Python Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Python for algorithm development, modeling, and data analysis.
4. Behavior Trees Expertise: Experience designing and debugging complex autonomous behaviors with Behavior Trees.
5. PX4 Experience: Hands-on experience with PX4 flight control stack, including architecture, modules, and simulation tools (SITL/HIL).
6. Core GNC Knowledge: Strong foundation in control theory, vehicle dynamics, state estimation (Kalman filters), and navigation principles.