GNC Test Engineer

Ready to make connectivity from space universally accessible, secure and actionable? Then you’ve come to the right place!

E-Space is bridging Earth and space to enable hyper-scaled deployments of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and services. We are building a highly-advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) space system that will fundamentally change the design, economics, manufacturing and service delivery associated with traditional satellite and terrestrial IoT systems.

We’re intentional, we’re unapologetically curious and we’re 100% committed to innovate space-based communications and deliver actionable intelligence that will expand global economies, protect space and our planet and enhance our overall quality of life.

We are seeking a hands-on Test Engineer to join our Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) team. You will design, build, and operate testbeds and ground support equipment to validate sensors, actuators, and the end-to-end GNC subsystem. This position is based in Saratoga, CA.

What you will do:

• Design, assemble, and operate hardware testbeds and ground support equipment (GSE).
• Develop scripts and tools for test automation, data processing, and logging.
• Develop and execute characterization, qualification, and acceptance test procedures for GNC sensors, actuators, and for system-level Assembly, Integration, and Tests (AIT).
• Document test results and process data to support calibration and performance model updates.
• Participate in spacecraft AIT campaigns, including flat sat and environmental testing, ensuring continuity from subsystem validation through to on-orbit commissioning.
• Prepare documentation, present findings, and participate in design and test reviews.

What you bring to this role:

• BS +5 years / MS +3 years in Electronics, Mechatronics, Robotics, Aerospace, or related field.
• Organized and proactive problem solver; thrives in hands-on fast-paced startup environment.
• Direct experience testing and delivering critical hardware, with associated processes and practices (clean room, ESD protocols, access controls, etc.).
• Proficiency with CAD modeling and 3D printing for rapid prototyping.
• Skilled in Unix/Linux, Bash, Python, MATLAB, and collaborative version control (git-based workflows).
• Experience building and operating testbeds using microcontrollers or embedded systems (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Pixhawk).
• Familiarity with typical GNC sensors and actuators (e.g., IMUs, GNSS, magnetometers), and associated testing and calibration methods.
• Excellent technical communication and presentation skills.

Bonus points:

• Experience with a spacecraft AIT, launch campaign, and spacecraft on-orbit operations.
• Knowledge of GNC estimation (e.g., Kalman filters) and control (e.g., PID, LQR) algorithms.
• Understanding of space environment effects on hardware.
• Experience reading PCB schematics, debugging PCBs and building simple harnesses.

This is a full time, exempt position, based out of our Saratoga office. The target base pay for this position is $100,000 - $200,000 annually. The total compensation packaged will be determined by various factors such as your relevant job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

We are redefining how satellites are designed, manufactured and used—so we’re looking for candidates with passion, deep knowledge and direct experience on LEO satellite component development, design and in-orbit activities. If that’s your experience – then we’ll be immediately wow-ed.

E-Space is not currently able to provide employment sponsorship for candidates who do not hold work authorization for the location of this role.

Why E-Space is right for you:

As a member of our team, you will play a crucial role in driving our success. Our team members have a strong sense of dedication and responsibility; this includes a strong commitment to our mission to create an entirely new suite of global capabilities to improve lives, business efficiencies and build a smarter planet. This means that there will be times when extra hours, including nights and weekends, may be needed to meet critical deadlines and mission goals. In return, we offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development and the chance to make a meaningful impact in a high-growth industry.

We want you to make the most of your journey at E-Space. That’s why we support and invest in the physical, emotional and financial well-being of our team members and their families. Some of what you can expect when working at E-Space:

• An opportunity to really make a difference

• Sustainability at our core

• Fair and honest workplace

• Innovative thinking is encouraged

• Competitive salaries

• Continuous learning and development

• Health and wellness care options

• Financial solutions for the future

• Optional legal services (US only)

• Paid holidays

• Paid time off