Senior/Principal Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft

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 • Architect vision-based navigation systems for autonomous space missions • Define and evaluate algorithms for pose estimation, feature tracking, and sensor fusion • Build prototype CV pipelines for onboard and simulation environments • Lead integration of camera systems with GNC stack • Deliver a vision-based navigation architecture for SDA/RPOD missions • Develop and validate perception algorithms using synthetic and real datasets • Stand up simulation environments for camera modeling and scene generation • Drive integration and testing of navigation solutions within full system Your Ideal Background Required • Bachelor’s or higher degree in Aerospace, Robotics, Computer Vision, or related field • 5+ years experience in navigation, state estimation, or computer vision systems • Strong experience with computer vision techniques (e.g., SLAM, visual odometry, feature detection) • Proficiency in Python and/or C++ for algorithm development • Experience deploying algorithms to real-world or flight-like systems • Proven ability to lead technical projects from concept to deployment Desired • Experience with space-based navigation (e.g., RPOD, planetary landing, SSA/SDA) • Familiarity with multi-sensor fusion (IMU, cameras, LiDAR, etc.) • Experience with OpenCV, ROS, or similar frameworks • Understanding of spacecraft dynamics and GNC systems • Experience with simulation tools and synthetic data generation • 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 $150,000 - $200,000 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.