SeniorPrincipal Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft

Katalyst Description:

We build robotic spacecraft that enable dynamic space operations creating a futurewhere maneuvering upgrading refueling and exploration are as routine as they are onEarth. Getting to space and overcoming the gravity well is only half the story. What youdo there is the future. We are not building the trains. We arebuilding the machines thatlay down the tracks. By developing the foundational capabilities that make sustainedresponsive operations possible we enable a new era of space activity that strengthensnational security and ensures freedom of action in an increasingly contested domain.

Katalyst Culture:

Working at Katalyst is intense hands-on and deeply rewarding. Youll 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 its harder. Youll work closely with thoughtful driven teammates who push each other to do their best.

What Youll Do

1. Architect vision-based navigation systems for autonomous space missions
2. Define and evaluate algorithms for pose estimation feature tracking and sensor fusion
3. Build prototype CV pipelines for onboard and simulation environments
4. Lead integration of camera systems with GNC stack
5. Deliver a vision-based navigation architecture for SDA/RPOD missions
6. Develop and validate perception algorithms using synthetic and real datasets
7. Stand up simulation environments for camera modeling and scene generation
8. Drive integration and testing of navigation solutions within full system

Your Ideal Background

1. Bachelors or higher degree in Aerospace Robotics Computer Vision or related field
2. 5 years experience in navigation state estimation or computer vision systems
3. Strong experience with computer vision techniques (e.g. SLAM visual odometry feature detection)
4. Proficiency in Python and/or C for algorithm development
5. Experience deploying algorithms to real-world or flight-like systems
6. Proven ability to lead technical projects from concept to deployment

Desired

1. Experience with space-based navigation (e.g. RPOD planetary landing SSA/SDA)
2. Familiarity with multi-sensor fusion (IMU cameras LiDAR etc.)
3. Experience with OpenCV ROS or similar frameworks
4. Understanding of spacecraft dynamics and GNC systems
5. Experience with simulation tools and synthetic data generation
6. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

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 $150000 - $200000 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.