Embedded Controls Engineer, Spacecraft

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

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Options

Comprehensive Medical Coverage

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Job summary

Katalyst is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to design, implement, and validate software for spacecraft subsystems in Broomfield, Colorado. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and at least 4 years of experience in the industry, especially with embedded systems and C/C++ programming.

The position offers a competitive salary range of $100,000 to $160,000 annually, alongside comprehensive benefits including medical coverage and stock options.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in embedded software and control systems development.
• Strong experience with C/C++ for real-time systems.
• Familiar with embedded communication protocols like CAN, SPI, I2C.

Responsibilities

• Design and validate embedded control software for spacecraft subsystems.
• Develop real-time control algorithms that interface with sensors.
• Support integration and troubleshooting of embedded hardware and software.

Skills

Embedded software development

Control systems

C/C++ programming

Hardware-software debugging

Communication protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline

Master’s degree in a related field

Tools

Real-time operating systems

Embedded Linux

Laboratory test equipment

Job description

What You’ll Do

• Design, implement, and validate embedded control software for spacecraft subsystems including propulsion, robotics, avionics, and vehicle actuation systems.
• Develop real-time control algorithms and flight software that interface directly with sensors, 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.

What We’re Looking 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.
• Previous work 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.