Senior GNC Engineer, Space Systems

Katalyst Space; Broomfield (CO); On-site; USD 140,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan

Relocation bonus

Comprehensive medical, vision, dental

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Job summary

Katalyst Space is seeking a seasoned GNC engineer to support algorithm trade studies, build and validate simulation tools, and collaborate on system-level integration for space missions. You will contribute to modeling, state estimation, trajectory planning, and real-time control in a fast-paced startup ambiente.

Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's in engineering and 3+ years in GNC, with Python, C/C++, and Linux experience, plus a passion for aerospace challenges.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering field is required.
• 3+ years in guidance, navigation, and control.
• Experience with modeling and simulation and state estimation algorithm development.
• Trajectory or path planning and dynamical systems control.
• Python for modeling and simulation; experience with GNC systems and sensors.

Responsibilities

• Supporting GNC algorithm trade studies.
• Building simulation environments and prototype algorithms.
• Collaborating on system-level integration.
• Developing and validating 6-DoF simulation tools.
• Assisting with datasets and algorithm evaluation.
• Supporting implementation, testing, and debugging.

Skills

Modeling and simulation

Algorithm development for state est.

Trajectory planning

Control of dynamical systems

Python for modeling

GNC systems

Sensors

Problem solving

Startup environment

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field

Tools

Git

Linux

Basilisk

C/C++

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

• Supporting GNC algorithm trade studies
• Building simulation environments and prototype algorithms
• Collaborating on system-level integration
• Developing and validating 6-DoF simulation tools
• Assisting with datasets and algorithm evaluation
• Supporting implementation, testing, and debugging

Your Ideal Background

Required

• Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field
• 3+ years of experience working in guidance, navigation, and controlin one or more areas:
• Modeling and simulation
• Algorithm development for state estimation
• Trajectory or path planning
• Classical or modern control of dynamical systems
• Software development experience in Python for modeling and simulation applications
• Experience with GNC systems, sensors, or control algorithms
• Ability to work in fast-paced startup environment
• Strong problem-solving skills

Desired

• Experience with space system development, especially around guidance, navigation and control, or rendezvous proximity operations.
• Orbital mechanics / Astrodynamics knowledge
• Git, Linux, Basilisk familiarity C/C++ experience
• Strong communication skills
• Real-time embedded systems experience
• Hardware-in-the-loop experience
• Spacecraft hardware knowledge (RWAs, thrusters, etc)
• Mission operations experience

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 - $240,000 annually.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Katalyst.

• long-term incentives, in the form of the Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan
• relocation bonus and other discretionary bonuses
• access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 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.