Principal Systems Engineer

Katalyst; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 140,000 - 205,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Long-term incentives

Relocation bonus

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage

Job summary

Katalyst is seeking a leader for system architecture in advanced robotic spacecraft development. This role involves technical execution from concept to flight operations, requiring 12+ years of experience in aerospace or robotics.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and have strong leadership and communication skills to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

This position offers an annual salary range of $140,000 - $205,000, plus benefits like medical coverage and Paid Time Off.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience developing complex aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading system architecture and verification activities.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead system architecture and technical execution for advanced robotic spacecraft.
• Own system-level requirements across subsystems and mission operations.
• Drive cross-functional engineering efforts and trade studies.

Skills

System architecture leadership

Requirements management

Technical communication

Complex aerospace development

Fast-paced initiative

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Tools

Requirements management tools

Model-based systems engineering (MBSE)

Job description

Katalyst Description:

We build robotic spacecraft that enable dynamic space operations, creating a future where maneuvering, upgrading, refueling, 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 activity that strengthens national 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.

What You’ll Do

• Lead system architecture, requirements development, and technical execution for advanced robotic spacecraft from concept through flight operations.
• Own the definition, allocation, and verification of system-level requirements across spacecraft subsystems, software, autonomy, and mission operations.
• Drive cross‑functional engineering efforts, balancing mission objectives, technical performance, schedule, cost, and risk to deliver successful spacecraft programs.
• Develop and maintain system models, interface definitions, trade studies, and technical baselines that guide design decisions throughout the product lifecycle.
• Create analyses, trade studies, and simulations to support technical and product development decisions.

What We’re Looking For

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years of experience developing complex aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading system architecture, requirements management, integration, verification, and validation activities for highly integrated hardware/software systems.
• Strong technical communication skills with the ability to influence engineers, program leaders, customers, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, highly collaborative environment where ownership, initiative, and sound engineering judgment are essential.

Your Ideal Background

Preferred

• Experience developing spacecraft, satellite, launch vehicle, robotic, or other mission‑critical aerospace systems through flight qualification and operational deployment.
• Proficiency with systems engineering tools and methodologies, including requirements management, model‑based systems engineering (MBSE), trade studies, and technical risk management.
• Experience leading major design reviews such as SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRR, including customer‑facing technical engagements.
• Familiarity with autonomy, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), mission operations, rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), or on‑orbit servicing missions.

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 $140,000 - $205,000 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.