Senior Guidance, Navigation & Control Engineer, Space Systems

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

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options & equity

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k)

Unlimited PTO

Catered lunches

Job summary

Katalyst Space in Colorado is seeking a senior Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) engineer to advance simulation, modelling, and real-time control for space systems. You will develop and validate 6-DoF tools, run trade studies, and collaborate on system-level integration in a fast-paced startup environment.

Requires 3+ years in GNC, Python modeling, and space-domain experience. The role offers a competitive base salary, long-term incentives, relocation bonus, comprehensive benefits, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years in guidance, navigation and control for space systems.
• Strong modeling, simulation, and trajectory planning experience.
• Proficient in Python for modeling and simulation.
• Experience with GNC systems, sensors or control algorithms.

Responsibilities

• Support GNC algorithm trade studies and build simulation environments.
• Collaborate on system-level integration and validation.
• Develop and validate 6-DoF simulation tools.
• Assist with datasets and algorithm evaluation.
• Support implementation, testing, and debugging.

Skills

GNC modeling & simulation

Trajectory/path planning

Python modeling & simulation

Git & Linux proficiency

Real-time embedded systems

Spacecraft guidance & control

Education

Bachelor’s degree in relevant engineering field

Tools

Basilisk

C/C++ experience

Git

Linux

Job description

Katalyst 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.

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.

• Stock options & equity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Unlimited PTO
• Catered lunches

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 control in one or more areas:
• Modeling and simulation
• 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
• 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
• Real-time embedded systems 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. 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.