Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Guidance, Navigation, and Control EngineerBroomfield, Colorado, United StatesKatalyst is an American technology company focused on dynamic space operations. We are building a fleet of dual-use multipurpose robotic space vehicles to create the future where maneuvering, upgrading, refueling, resupply and exploration are as routine as they are on Earth. Getting to space and overcoming the gravity well is only half the story. What you do there is the future. We are not building the trains. We are building the machines that lay down the tracks. By developing the foundational capabilities that make sustained, responsive operations possible, we enable a new era of space exploration that strengthens national security and ensures freedom of action in an increasingly contested domain.Working at Katalyst is intense, hands-on, and deeply rewarding. You'll take real ownership and see your work move from concept to operations in an environment where the problems are hard and the impact is real. We value humility, craftsmanship, and doing things the right way, even when it's harder. You'll work closely with thoughtful, driven teammates who push each other to do their best.Key ResponsibilitiesArchitecture and InvestigationArchitect solutions necessary to accomplish space mission objectives around space domain awareness and RPOD with an emphasis on autonomy, from both a hardware and software perspective.Evaluate and select appropriate techniques to achieve mission such as machine learning methods, physics-informed solutions, stochastic methods, Kalman Filters, etc.Assist in proposal capture efforts with feasibility analysis and engage with private/public partners, Department of Defense, Other Government Agencies, and other commercial partnerships.Architecture DesignDevelop architecture, lead trade studies and lead GNC team from conceptualization to flight for RPOD missionsDesign algorithms, simulations, and tools for orbit determination, state estimation, uncertainty propagation to support SDA effortsAnalyze and source datasets for training and validation or algorithm performance.Build and test modeling and simulation tools for orbital/cislunar dynamics, sensor modeling, and visualization.Six degree of freedom modeling, simulation and validation of space craft dynamics, sensors and algorithms, including for RPOD missions.ImplementationCollaborate with the software and GNC teams to implement algorithm in flight software.Heavily support hardware-in-the-loop testing for integrated system validation.Design concepts of operations (CONOPS) that balance thermal, power, momentum and communications for spacecraft missions.Provide mission operations training and support.QualificationsRequired:Bachelor's degree in a technical engineering discipline5+ years of experience working in guidance, navigation, and controlSoftware development experience in PythonExperience developing, debugging, and deploying GNC sensors, effectors and algorithms that have been used in real world applications/projectsAbility to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphereProven ability to lead a project from conception to completionDesired:Experience with cradle-to-grave spacecraft design, testing, verification/validation and in-orbit mission operationsExpertise in either guidance, navigation or controlExperience with multi-body astrodynamicsExperience with Git, Linux and BasiliskSoftware development experience in C/C++Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or directionExcellent communication skills both written and verbalAdditional Requirements: Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.Compensation and Benefits: Your base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. The anticipated salary range for this role is $180,000 - $280,000 annually. Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Katalyst. You will also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of the Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan, as well as a relocation bonus and other discretionary bonuses. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, and unlimited Paid Time Off.At Katalyst our work on projects involving the U.S. Department of Defense requires adherence to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. Parts 120-130, which requires compliance with U.S. export laws before allowing employees to perform certain positions. Currently, our available roles necessitate access to ITAR-controlled information, and as a result, Katalyst would have to ensure any non-US person is authorized access to ITAR information before the commencement of employment. We are committed to equal employment opportunities and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.