What You'll Do- Understand spacecraft architecture and missions
- Review current model and simulation capability
- Identify any gaps in current simulation framework
- Evaluate how simulation integrates with other teams within the company GSW, FSW, AI&T, MOPS, etc
- Train as an operator to prepare for upcoming mission
- Identify gaps from assessment and create the simulation architecture roadmap
- Identify required models (Spacecraft subsystem, environment, GNC, etc)
- Establish a framework that defines how hardware models, software models, and operational scenarios interact within the simulation environment
- Establish how the digital twin gets integrated into a physics based "universe sim"
- Establish a concrete validation strategy
Mindset + skills (what is absolutely necessary to do the job):
Mindset - Systems level thinker understanding the crossroads of Physics, Software and Hardware
- Ownership mindset serving as the technical authority across design and implementation
- Ability to prioritize needs from multiple internal and external customers
- Excels while operating in a fast-paced New Space environment
- Strong desire to build and design something from the ground up
- Someone willing to get dirty and produce code not just design
- Passionate about creating a product that is used throughout the company
Skills - Strong understanding of orbital mechanics and astrodynamics
- Experience modeling spacecraft dynamics, control systems, and environmental effects
- Ability to design modular and extensible simulation architecture
- Experience implementing physics-based simulations in Python and C++
- Strong knowledge of numerical methods, time integration, and stability considerations
- Experience building "universe-style" multi-body simulation environments
- Ability to design simulations that support historical replay, real-time execution, and accelerated future-time scenarios
- Experience with integrating simulations with GSW, FSW, AI&T, and HITL testing
- Ability to design constellation level simulations
- Experience designing event-driven or time-stepped simulation frameworks
- Experience generating realistic synthetic telemetry
- Strong V&V practices
Your Ideal BackgroundRequired- 10+ years of experience in modeling and simulation for complex aerospace missions
- Deep understanding of physics engines or digital twins (subsystem/component models, dynamical systems, etc)
- Experience developing for multiple internal stakeholders such as AI&T, GSW, MOPS, FSW, etc
- BS in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science or closely related STEM field
- Deep knowledge in C++, Python, Basilisk (or similar Framework), Docker, K8, CI/CD
Preferred - Proven ownership of the design and architecture of a multi-model and simulation system
- Understanding of distributed simulation frameworks
- Strong foundation in multiple subsystems such as GNC, Flight Dynamics, EPS, Propulsion, etc
- Nice to have experience simulating 6-DOF relative motion and ROPD missions
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 $130,000 - $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.
