Senior Space Systems Engineer

Senior Space Systems 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.OverviewAs a Senior Space Systems Engineer, you'll play a key role in developing cohesive system architectures and ensuring the effective integration of spacecraft subsystems to meet mission objectives. This position is a Senior Space Systems Engineering role, focused on the engineering of space systems, rather than a systems engineer for space. We're looking for someone with a deep understanding of how complex subsystems interact and impact overall system performance.What You'll DoOversee and perform system-wide architecture design, ensuring subsystems function cohesively and meet overarching system goalsLead detailed technical efforts and spearhead trade studies of space system architecturesIdentify and address gaps between requirements and top-level objectives, constraining broad problems and decomposing them into actionable tasks to implement solutionsSupport the sourcing and selection of key suppliers, components, and technologiesIntegrate spacecraft components, ensuring cohesive system functionality and compatibility across all subsystemsDefine Key Performance Parameters, select quantifiable metrics, and determine modeling approaches to directly address and answer key design questions in physics-based modeling and simulation effortsLead small multi-discipline teams on spacecraft design, space mission design, and R&D projectsAssist proposal capture efforts, including private/public, DoD, OGA, and other commercial partnershipsConduct comprehensive system analyses, including risk assessments, reliability analyses, and trade studies to optimize system performanceParticipate in design reviews, ensuring that designs meet mission requirements, are feasible, and incorporate best practicesSupport hardware-in-the-loop testing to validate integrated system performance in simulated operational environmentsProvide technical guidance to junior engineersYour Ideal BackgroundRequiredBachelor's degree in a technical engineering discipline5+ years of experience working on satellite systems with direct involvement in flight programs and the entire Validation and Verification chainAbility to define and lay out solutions to ambiguous problemsStrong written and verbal communication skillsCapable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or directionExpertise in the space environment, commercial space operations, and/or roboticsPreferredDirect involvement in flight operations or launch campaignHardware Validation and Verification experienceProficiency with Python, Matlab, STK, Ansys, and/or JAMAExperience in orbital mechanics / astrodynamicsExperience in Space Domain Awareness, RPOD, or RoboticsAdditional 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 $130,000 - $180,000 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.