Navigation Engineer at GuideTech LLC – Lenexa, Kansas

GuideTech, a subsidiary of Palladyne AI, builds high-performance avionics and autonomy software for aerospace, space, and defense systems. We support a wide array of vehicles, from small multi-rotors, heavy lift UAVs, unmanned fighter jets, launch vehicles, spacecraft, re-entry vehicles, missiles and counter-UAS interceptors.

Palladyne AI (NASDAQ: PYDN) is an AI software company on a mission to automate physically demanding work that has historically been “too complex to automate.” With more than thirty years of robotics R&D — including during our time under Raytheon — we’ve developed advanced AI and ML software that enables robots to observe, learn, reason, and act with human-like intelligence.

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a Senior Navigation Engineer to develop and implement advanced navigation and state estimation solutions for autonomous systems.

This role is critical to enabling robust, real-world autonomy across GPS-denied, contested, and dynamic environments. You will work at the intersection of perception, controls, and autonomy—developing high-performance navigation solutions that operate reliably in mission-critical scenarios.

What You’ll Do:

• Design, implement, and optimize navigation and state estimation algorithms (e.g., Kalman filtering, sensor fusion, SLAM)

• Develop and integrate multi-sensor navigation systems (GNSS, INS, IMU, vision, LiDAR, RF, etc.)

• Lead system-level architecture for navigation, localization, and timing (PNT) solutions

• Build robust solutions for GPS-denied and degraded environments

• Collaborate with autonomy, controls, and perception teams to deliver end-to-end system performance

• Conduct simulation, modeling, and real-world testing to validate navigation performance

• Analyze system performance, debug issues, and drive continuous improvement

• Contribute to requirements definition, interface design, and system verification

• Mentor junior engineers

• Support field testing and deployment of autonomous systems

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related field

• 5–8+ years of experience

• Strong background in:

· Navigation, estimation, and sensor fusion

· Linear algebra, probability, and optimization

• Hands-on experience with:

· Kalman filters (EKF/UKF), factor graphs, or similar techniques

· GNSS, INS, IMU integration

· Proficiency in C++, Python, or similar languages

· Experience developing and testing real-world navigation systems

Preferred Qualifications

· 8+ years of experience

· Experience with autonomous systems (UAVs, robotics, defense systems, etc.)

· Knowledge of vision-based navigation, SLAM, or LiDAR-based localization

· Experience operating in denied, disrupted, intermittent (DDIL) environments

· Familiarity with embedded systems or real-time systems

· Experience with simulation tools (MATLAB, ROS, Gazebo, etc.)

· Prior work on flight systems, aerospace, or defense platforms

OUR EMPLOYEE DNA (HOW WE WORK)

• We take ownership and follow through on commitments
• We communicate directly, respectfully, and with transparency
• We prioritize effectively and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment
• We collaborate across teams and support one another to get results

COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY

We believe competitive compensation and meaningful benefits are foundational—but what truly drives performance is connection to purpose. We aim to create an environment where employees are motivated not just by what they earn, but by the impact they make and the team they’re part of.

CULTURE (WHY IT MATTERS)

Our culture is grounded in trust, integrity, and a shared commitment to meaningful work. As a government contractor, we support missions that impact national security, public safety, and critical technologies—work that demands accountability, professionalism, and high ethical standards.

We believe exceptional results come from empowered teams. We foster a collaborative environment where expertise is valued, diverse perspectives are respected, and individuals are trusted to take ownership and make an impact.

WORK AUTHORIZATION & CLEARANCE

This position requires the ability to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.

Depending on the nature of the work, the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance may be required. Candidates may be asked to provide additional information relevant to clearance eligibility in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

BENEFITS

GuideTech offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement plans, and additional employee programs designed to support your overall well-being.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role is based onsite in Lenexa, Kansas and may involve working in both an office and light production environment. Responsibilities may include occasional standing, lifting, and handling of equipment or materials.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may evolve based on business needs.

THE FINE PRINT

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

GuideTech is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.