Senior Guidance Navigation and Control Engineer, Space Systems

Katalyst Culture

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. 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.

About the Role

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

Responsibilities

• Solving complex problems in guidance, navigation, and control
• Developing and validating simulation tools
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate systems
• Testing and debugging algorithms and simulations
• Working in a fast-paced startup environment

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant engineering field
• 3+ years of experience working in guidance, navigation, and control
• Experience with GNC systems, sensors, or control algorithms
• Software development experience in Python for modeling and simulation applications
• Strong problem-solving skills

Qualifications

• Experience with space system development, especially around guidance, navigation and control, or rendezvous proximity operations
• Orbital mechanics / Astrodynamics knowledge
• C/C++ experience
• Git, Linux, Basilisk familiarity
• Real-time embedded systems experience
• Mission operations experience

Skills

• Python for modeling and simulation applications
• Modeling and simulation
• Algorithm development for state estimation
• Trajectory or path planning
• Classical or modern control of dynamical systems
• System-level integration
• Simulation tools development and validation
• Dataset and algorithm evaluation support
• Implementation, testing, and debugging assistance

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.

Pay

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.

Schedule

You will be required to work extended hours and weekends as needed.