Senior Flight Software Engineer

What You’ll Do

• Support spacecraft flight test by executing fault detection test campaigns, integrated system communication tests, functional and performance verification tests, and flight software sequencing tests
• Build an understanding of spacecraft rendezvous, capture, and pose estimation software and assist in its integration into multi-axis hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) spacecraft testbed
• Develop and maintain existing software to interface to spacecraft hardware subsystems, utilizing communication standards such as UART, TCP/IP, and CAN
• Document custom hardware interface APIs for internal and external users, focusing on hardware functionality and reliability features
• Review and contribute to the iteration of other engineers’ code with technical rigor through code reviews and subsystem design reviews

What We’re Looking For

• Deep analytical thinking and excellent problem solving
• Systems-thinking mindset
• Technical mastery
• Strong attention to detail

Your Ideal Background

• B.S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 7+ years of software development experience, including embedded or real-time systems
• High proficiency in C/C++ for embedded platforms
• Proven experience developing software in RTOS and/or embedded Linux environments
• Experience with flight software for spacecraft, launch vehicles, or other mission- or safety-critical autonomous systems
• Deep understanding of software architecture, interface definition, and system-level integration for complex embedded systems
• Familiarity with fault-tolerant system design, redundancy management, and robust error handling
• Experience designing and implementing algorithms for visual inspection, object detection, pose estimation, and relative navigation, including robotics or autonomous system computer vision pipelines
• Proficiency with Git-based version control, CI/CD pipelines, and agile software development practices
• Demonstrated ability to technically lead features or subsystems end-to-end, from requirements definition through implementation, testing, and integration

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 $150,000 - $190,000 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.