Principal Systems Engineer Verified today

About Katalyst

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. 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.

What You'll Do

• Lead system architecture, requirements development, and technical execution for advanced robotic spacecraft from concept through flight operations.
• Own the definition, allocation, and verification of system-level requirements across spacecraft subsystems, software, autonomy, and mission operations.
• Drive cross-functional engineering efforts, balancing mission objectives, technical performance, schedule, cost, and risk to deliver successful spacecraft programs.
• Develop and maintain system models, interface definitions, trade studies, and technical baselines that guide design decisions throughout the product lifecycle.
• Create analyses, trade studies, and simulations to support technical and product development decisions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years of experience developing complex aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading system architecture, requirements management, integration, verification, and validation activities for highly integrated hardware/software systems.
• Strong technical communication skills with the ability to influence engineers, program leaders, customers, and external stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment where ownership, initiative, and sound engineering judgment are essential.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing spacecraft, satellite, launch vehicle, robotic, or other mission-critical aerospace systems through flight qualification and operational deployment.
• Proficiency with systems engineering tools and methodologies, including requirements management, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), trade studies, and technical risk management.
• Experience leading major design reviews such as SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRR, including customer-facing technical engagements.