GNC Test Engineer
Read straight from LTA Research's careers page, verified 1d ago.Seekless can tailor your résumé to it.
Seekless can write your résumé for this posting first.
Before you apply
LocationAkron, Ohio
Work modeon-site
Typefull-time
SeniorityMid
Experience3+ yrs
DepartmentEngineering, GNC
Company size51–200 people
PostedAug 21, 2026 · 2mo ago
Verified live1d ago
At a glanceSummarised by Seekless from the posting.
3+ years in aerospace, robotics, or high-reliability hardware environments
Proficiency in Python or C++ programming
Hands-on experience with PX4 Flight Control Software and CAN communication protocols
Working knowledge of DC motors and ESC hardware
Familiarity with standard CAD software
Proven ability to thrive in a rapid build-test-fail-fix iteration cycle with strong cross-functional communication skills
Experience piloting drones/UAVs or working with flight testing operations
Hands-on experience troubleshooting low-level electrical hardware issues
Familiarity with MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling
Criminal background check clearance
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
Skills
Python
C++
PX4
CAN
MATLAB
Simulink
CAD
Benefits
Relocation assistance
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Disability insurance
Parental leave
Unlimited PTO
401(k) matching
Meal provision
Wellness stipend
Phone stipend
Education stipend
About the role
The Baby Airship team is seeking a dedicated GNC test engineer to contribute to our flight test operations of our sub-scale model. We are looking for a versatile engineer with experience in three critical domains—Mechanical, Software, or GNC—to integrate directly with our hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and flight prototyping workflows. The test engineer will work with flight test plans, execute flight test preparations, and work with the rest of the team to analyze flight test data. The test engineer will also work on assisting the team to improve the fidelity of the Baby Airship as a sub-scale model of Pathfinder 1.
Responsibilities
•
Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model
•
HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab testing to validate flight software and hardware integrations
•
Flight Data & Analytics: Analyze flight logs and test data to feed performance insights back into the GNC and sub-scale simulation models
•
Mechanical: Design and iteration of lightweight structural components for the Baby Airship
•
Software: Development of flight control logic, telemetry processing, or embedded systems (C++/Python)
•
GNC: Work alongside GNC engineers to author flight test plans and analyze vehicle dynamics
Qualifications
•
Experience: 3+ years in aerospace, robotics, or high-reliability hardware environments
•
Coding Skills: Proficiency in Python or C++ programming
•
Flight Software & Protocols: Hands-on experience with PX4 Flight Control Software and CAN communication protocols
•
Hardware Aptitude: Working knowledge of DC motors and ESC hardware
•
Design Tools: Familiarity with standard CAD software
•
Mindset: Proven ability to thrive in a rapid “build-test-fail-fix” iteration cycle with strong cross-functional communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
•
Experience piloting drones/UAVs or working with flight testing operations
•
Hands-on experience troubleshooting low-level electrical hardware issues
•
Familiarity with MATLAB and Simulink for system modeling
What We Offer!
•
Relocation assistance
•
Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
•
Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
•
Parental leave
•
Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
•
401(k) matching up to 6%
•
Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
•
Monthly wellness stipend
•
Monthly cell phone stipend
•
Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
•
Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
•
An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
Physical / Compliance Requirements
•
Criminal background check clearance
•
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
About the company
LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.
Legal
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.