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Senior/Principal Navigation Engineer, Spacecraft Verified today

Katalyst Space · Broomfield, CO · Space Systems · first seen 2026-07-16
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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 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 Information

Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Base salary $150,000 to $200,000 annually, determined case-by-case based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Eligible for long-term incentives including Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan, relocation bonus, and discretionary bonuses. Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, unlimited Paid Time Off.

This role requires adherence to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and compliance with U.S. export laws. Non-US persons must be authorized access to ITAR-controlled information before employment begins.