Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft
Katalyst Healthcares & Life SciencesRole Overview
Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences is hiring a Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft. This is a full-time role in Broomfield, Colorado. The posted range is $150k to $200k. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job Description
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft position at Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft position at Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences located?
This position is based in Broomfield, Colorado. Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
How much does the Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft role at Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences pay?
Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences has posted a compensation range of $150k to $200k for this position. Final offers typically vary based on candidate experience, location, and internal salary bands.
When was the Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft role at Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences posted?
This role was posted on May 6, 2026 (46 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
How much experience does the Senior Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft role at Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences require?
This is a senior-level position. Most senior roles call for 5+ years of directly relevant experience. Katalyst Healthcares & Life Sciences lists their specific requirements in the description below, so review the must-have qualifications closely before applying.
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