GNC & Flight Software

Overview

Astras mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industrys leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Launch Automation Engineer , you will own the algorithms that automatically load and launch our rockets. You'll model the fluid and pneumatic systems that fuel and pressurize our vehicles, develop the automation sequences that execute countdown, and build the simulations that let us validate operations before they run on hardware. Your work directly enables every launch.

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Model : Develop high-fidelity simulations of cryogenic, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems including propellant loading, tank pressurization, and two-phase flow dynamics
• Automate : Create the algorithms and control sequences that execute launch operations from propellant conditioning through terminal count and liftoff
• Test : Build out test automation across all environments, including Simulink simulation, hardware-in-the-loop, and CI / CD pipelines
• Partner : Work with propulsion, avionics, and GNC teams to define critical interfaces, specify component and system requirements, and contribute to decisions that shape future launch systems
• Launch : Support countdown operations from mission control, monitoring fluid systems and responding to anomalies in real time
• Analyze : Use ground test and launch data to identify system behavior, validate models, and improve simulation fidelity
• Ownership : End-to-end responsibility for large aspects of the launch automation system

Why We Value You

Desired Multipliers

Who Thrives Here

This role is ideal for :

The pay range for this role is : $130,000-160,000

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

San Francisco Applicants

Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicants status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

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