Embedded Controls Engineer, Spacecraft

Katalyst Space Technologies; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 100,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Relocation bonus

Discretionary bonuses

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

Unlimited PTO

Job summary

Katalyst Space Technologies is seeking a talented embedded software engineer to design and implement real-time control software for spacecraft subsystems in a DoD-oriented environment.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to mature systems from concept through flight operations, ensuring reliable performance under demanding conditions. A strong foundation in C/C++ and embedded protocols is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or related field.
• 4+ years of embedded software and control systems experience in high-reliability domains.
• Strong C/C++ experience for real-time or resource-constrained systems.
• Experience tuning control systems using classical/modern techniques.
• Familiarity with CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, Ethernet protocols.
• Ability to debug complex hardware-software interactions in lab/test environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and validate embedded control software for spacecraft subsystems.
• Develop real-time control algorithms and flight software interfacing with sensors and actuators.
• Support bring-up, integration, testing, and troubleshooting across lab, test, and flight environments.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, robotics, and flight software engineers from concept to flight operations.
• Own system performance through testing and verification for reliable operation in demanding environments.

Skills

Embedded software

C/C++

Real-time systems

Control systems

CAN

SPI

I2C

UART

Ethernet

Debugging hardware-software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Aerospace/Computer Engineering or Robotics

Master’s degree (preferred) in Controls, Aerospace, Robotics or related field

Tools

CAN

SPI

I2C

UART

Ethernet

Job description

Katalyst Description:

We build robotic spacecraft that enable dynamic space operations, creating a futurewhere maneuvering, upgrading, refueling, and exploration are as routine as they are onEarth. Getting to space and overcoming the gravity well is only half the story. What youdo there is the future. We are not building the trains. We arebuilding the machines thatlay down the tracks. By developing the foundational capabilities that make sustained,responsive operations possible, we enable a new era of space activity that strengthensnational security and ensures freedom of action in an increasingly contested domain.

Katalyst Culture:

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.

WhatYou’llDo

• Design, implement, andvalidateembedded control software for spacecraft subsystems including propulsion, robotics, avionics, and vehicle actuation systems.

• Develop real-time control algorithms and flight software thatinterface directly withsensors, actuators, and spacecraft hardware.

• Support the bring-up, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of embedded hardware and software across laboratory, test, and flight environments.

• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, robotics, and flight software engineers to mature systems from concept through flight operations.

• Own system performance through testing, verification, and mission execution, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.

WhatWe’reLooking For

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics, or a related technical discipline.

• 4+ years of experience developing embedded software and control systems for aerospace, robotics, autonomous systems, industrial automation, automotive, defense, or other high-reliability applications.

• Strong experience developing embedded software in C/C++ for real-time or resource-constrained systems.

• Experience implementing and tuning control systems using classical and/or modern control techniques.

• Familiarity with embedded communication protocols such as CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, or Ethernet.

• Ability to independently debug complex hardware-software interactions using laboratory test equipment and structured engineering processes.

Your Ideal Background

Preferred

• Master’s degree or higher in Controls, Aerospace, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• Experience developing guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems, robotics controls, or spacecraft flight software.

• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), embedded Linux, or safety-critical software development practices.

• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), software-in-the-loop (SIL), and automated test frameworks.

• Previouswork on aerospace, defense, autonomous systems, robotics, or other high-reliability embedded systems.

Additional 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 $100,000 - $160,000 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.