What You'll Do- Support spacecraft flight test by executing fault detection test campaigns, integrated system communication tests, functional and performance verification tests, and flight software sequencing tests
- Build an understanding of spacecraft rendezvous, capture, and pose estimation software and assist in its integration into multi-axis hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) spacecraft testbed.
- Develop and maintain existing software to interface to spacecraft hardware subsystems, utilizing communication standards such as UART, TCP/IP, and CAN.
- Document custom hardware interface APIs for internal and external users, focusing on hardware functionality and reliability features.
- Review and contribute to the iteration of other engineers' code with technical rigor through code reviews and subsystem design reviews.
What We're Looking For- Deep analytical thinking and excellent problem solving: You are able to work through intricate technical issues efficiently.
- Systems-thinking mindset: You understand how software interacts with spacecraft systems and mission requirements.
- Technical mastery: Deep proficiency in embedded C/C++ development for real-time or resource-constrained systems.
- Strong attention to detail: You approach their work with rigor and with an understanding and consideration of relevant edge cases could affect on-orbit performance.
Your Ideal Background- B.S. in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
- 7+ years of software development experience, including embedded or real-time systems
- High proficiency in C/C++ for embedded platforms
- Proven experience developing software in RTOS and/or embedded Linux environments
- Experience with flight software for spacecraft, launch vehicles, or other mission- or safety-critical autonomous systems
- Deep understanding of software architecture, interface definition, and system-level integration for complex embedded systems
- Familiarity with fault-tolerant system design, redundancy management, and robust error handling
- Experience designing and implementing algorithms for visual inspection, object detection, pose estimation, and relative navigation, including robotics or autonomous system computer vision pipelines.
- Proficiency with Git-based version control, CI/CD pipelines, and agile software development practices
- Demonstrated ability to technically lead features or subsystems end-to-end, from requirements definition through implementation, testing, and integration
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 - $190,000 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.
