Director of Engineering, 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

• Establish the technical baseline for Katalyst's robotic spacecraft.
• Translate work completed into a defined, repeatable system architecture.
• Identify, define, and formalize interface and integration assumptions across subsystems.
• Inject technical rigor into spacecraft development.
• Raise and maintain the bar on systems-level thinking and decision-making without slowing execution.
• Act as a system-level reviewer, ensuring architectural coherence and disciplined technical tradeoffs.
• Build systems and structures for Katalyst's GEO program, establishing:
• A clear requirements hierarchy with end-to-end traceability.
• System-level diagrams and architectures that align teams around a shared technical vision.
• Configuration and interface management practices that enable scale and repeatability.
• Leadership
• Take over management of functional-level engineering managers for current and future Katalyst missions
• Provide consistent, credible technical leadership across the engineering organization.
• Bring clarity, sound judgment, and calm to ambiguous, high-pressure situations.
• Set clear expectations for engineering rigor, precision, and accountability in execution.

What We're Looking For

• Hands-on technical leadership with the ability to engage deeply in system-level decisions.
• Comfort operating in ambiguity while holding exceptionally high standards for technical excellence.
• Highly analytical, systems-oriented thinker capable of evaluating cross-functional trades and defining the appropriate level of clarity in analysis, documentation, and interfaces.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to create durable structures that allow teams to operate efficiently.
• Leadership maturity: shaping a culture of credibility, humility, and pride in work while projecting calm urgency.

Your Ideal Background

• 8+ years of spacecraft engineering experience, with at least 5 years owning system-level architecture.
• Prior accountability for end-to-end spacecraft design, not limited to a single subsystem.
• Direct ownership of at least one spacecraft mission through flight, including system integration, test, and launch support.
• Experience navigating at least one transition from:
• Early demonstration missions to follow-on missions.
• New product development and R&D efforts into operationalized, repeatable execution.
• Proven experience leading multiple engineering disciplines simultaneously.

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 $195,000 - $260,000 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.