Avionics Manager, Spacecraft

Katalyst Description

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. 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 exploration 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. Oh, and we're dog friendly!

Benefits

• Stock options & equity
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k)
• Unlimited PTO
• Catered lunches

What You'll Do

• Lead the avionics organization responsible for spacecraft electronics, embedded software, communications, power systems, sensors, harnessing, and fault management.
• Own avionics architecture across multiple spacecraft programs from concept through flight operations.
• Oversight of power electronics design, development, testing, and integration to ensure system performance, reliability, and compliance with technical requirements.
• Drive hardware and software development efforts, ensuring designs meet performance, reliability, schedule, and cost requirements.
• Establish avionics engineering processes, standards, and design reviews.
• Partner closely with Systems, GNC, Robotics, Flight Software, and Mission Operations teams.
• Lead avionics integration, environmental testing, and flight qualification campaigns.
• Develop technical roadmaps for future avionics capabilities supporting robotic servicing missions.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing avionics team.
• Support customer engagements, technical reviews, and proposal efforts.

What We're Looking For

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years developing complex embedded systems for aerospace, defense, robotics, autonomous systems, or related industries.
• 3+ years leading technical teams or engineering organizations.
• Experience developing flight computers, embedded electronics, communications systems, or spacecraft avionics.
• Experience with integration, verification, and qualification testing of hardware/software systems.
• Strong understanding of reliability, redundancy, fault management, and mission-critical architectures.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Your Ideal Background

Preferred

• Spacecraft development experience through launch and on-orbit operations.
• Experience with radiation-tolerant electronics and space-qualified hardware.
• Familiarity with CAN, SpaceWire, Ethernet, RS-422/485, SPI, I2C, and spacecraft communication architectures.
• Experience with FPGA-based systems and high-reliability embedded software.
• Experience building hardware-in-the-loop and software-in-the-loop test environments.
• Experience supporting design reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRR.
• Active U.S. security clearance or ability to obtain one.

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 $177,000 - $217,000 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.