Mechanical Manager

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.

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 

• Lead and grow the Mechanical Engineering organization spanning robotics, bus design, arrays and other space mechanisms.  

• Own execution across multiple spacecraft mechanical development efforts.  

• Establish engineering standards and best practices.  

• Mentor engineers across all experience levels.  

• Drive architecture and major technical decisions.  

• Balance schedule, cost, manufacturability, and technical risk.  

• Coordinate closely with Systems, Electrical, Software, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Test.  

• Lead design reviews and technical risk assessments.  

• Build a culture of ownership, craftsmanship, and continuous improvement.  

• Support integration, qualification, environmental testing, and flight readiness.  

• Remove roadblocks for engineering teams while maintaining accountability. 

What We’re Looking For 

Required 

• 8+ years of mechanical engineering experience in aerospace or complex hardware development.  

• 3–5+ years leading engineering teams.  

• Extensive spacecraft or aerospace structural/mechanical design experience.  

• Strong CAD and GD&T expertise.  

• Deep understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes.  

• Experience leading qualification and environmental testing.  

• Strong mechanical fundamentals and systems engineering intuition.  

• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering efforts.  

• Experience making high-consequence engineering decisions and tradeoffs. 

Your Ideal Background 

Preferred  

• Flight hardware ownership from concept through launch.  

• Startup or rapid-development environment.  

• Experience managing multiple simultaneous programs.  

• Experience hiring and developing engineering talent.  

• Familiarity with propulsion systems, thermal systems, avionics integration, optics, or deployable structures.  

• Familiarity with robotics designed for a space environment. 

• Experience establishing engineering processes and design standards. 

• Experience designing and implementing space mechanisms. 

• Experience designing for launch environments and qualification. 

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 $139,000 - $225,000 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.