Senior/Principal Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft

What You’ll 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

Required

1. Bachelor’s 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 $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.