Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) Engineer

About Vessev

Vessev is innovating marine transportation by developing hydrofoiling electric vessels that offer a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional boats. These boats use advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion, designed and built in New Zealand (Aotearoa). The company is experiencing strong global growth and aims to redefine water transport with sustainable technology.

Role Overview

As a part of the Vessel Controls team, the GNC Engineer will focus on creating and refining the Guidance, Navigation, and Control algorithms that enable these vessels to fly smoothly above the water surface. This role offers substantial autonomy and the opportunity to own key segments of control law development while collaborating with senior engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Navigation: Develop state estimation and sensor fusion algorithms that integrate IMU, GNSS, and height sensors to accurately define vessel state amid challenging marine conditions like waves, spray, and sensor dropouts.
• Control: Create and maintain control laws for full-scale vessels; make decisions on sensor integration and help build analysis tools to measure controller performance; balance vessel performance with passenger comfort.
• Guidance: Design algorithms determining vessel trajectories, including ride height, speed, heading, and turning behaviors; manage transitions such as takeoff onto foils and smooth coordinated turns; adapt guidance for various operational modes such as docking and foiling flight.
• Simulation & Prototyping: Enhance and expand a 6DOF simulator to support vessel and system development; build prototypes of control systems using Python or MATLAB for simulation and Hardware-In-The-Loop testing.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with Flight Software, and gain a thorough understanding of mechanical, electrical, structural, and control systems integration on hydrofoiling vessels.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate has accumulated several years of experience in controls, robotics, or similar engineering fields and is poised to take on greater responsibility. They must demonstrate a practical, hands-on approach with curiosity about complex systems integration and possess the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with others.

• Engineering or related degree in aerospace, applied mathematics, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 4 years experience working in controls, robotics, or dynamic systems.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for modeling and prototype development.
• Experience with 6DOF or similar simulation tools.
• Track record of converting conceptual ideas into functional implementations.
• Strong interpersonal skills for teamwork across engineering disciplines.
• Self-driven, enthusiastic, and eager to learn with flexibility to adapt to evolving requirements.

Preferred Additional Experience

• Background in startup or fast-paced engineering environments.
• Experience in marine, aerospace, robotics, or motorsport sectors.

Company Culture & Benefits

• Working in a purpose-driven startup focused on environmental sustainability.
• Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking electric hydrofoiling vessel technology.
• Collaborative and talented team including experts from prominent technology and climate companies.
• Office-based work with flexible trust-based arrangements.
• Generous parental leave policies: 20 weeks paid for primary caregivers, 4 weeks for secondary (conditions apply).
• Competitive compensation reflecting role value.
• Engagement with water-based activities as part of company culture, including access to vessels and waterfront offices.
• Community includes boating, surfing, and other water-sport enthusiasts.

Inclusive Hiring

Encouragement is extended especially to women and underrepresented groups who may not meet every single qualification but are enthusiastic about contributing. The company values diversity and aims to build an inclusive team environment.