Guidance, Navigation, & Control Engineer

Katalyst 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.  Oh, and we're dog friendly!  

Benefits:

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

What You’ll Do 

1. Supporting GNC algorithm trade studies 
2. Building simulation environments and prototype algorithms
3. Collaborating on system-level integration 
4. Developing and validating 6-DoF simulation tools
5. Assisting with datasets and algorithm evaluation
6. Supporting implementation, testing, and debugging 

Your Ideal Background

Required 

1. Bachelor’s degree in relevant engineering field 
2. 3+ years of experience working in guidance, navigation, and control in one or more areas:
3. Modeling and simulation
4. Algorithm development for state estimation
5. Trajectory or path planning  
6. Classical or modern control of dynamical systems
7. Software development experience in Python for modeling and simulation applications
8. Experience with GNC systems, sensors, or control algorithms  
9. Ability to work in fast-paced startup environment  
10. Strong problem-solving skills  

Desired 

1. Experience with space system development, especially around guidance, navigation and control, or rendezvous proximity operations.