Avionics Test Engineer

Katalyst Description:

At Katalyst, we see human expansion into space not as a distant future, but as a present reality. As this growth accelerates, the need for advanced, reliable spacecraft has never been more critical.  We are standing at this forefront specializing in rendezvous and proximity operations creating spacecraft that can reconfigure, refuel, inspect and protect satellites on orbit rapidly, routinely, and regularly. In order to accomplish our mission, we also process data from a network of space-based sensors, both existing and deployable upgrades, using state of the art machine learning and advanced orbital dynamic filtering algorithms to increase space domain awareness, becoming the eyes and ears on orbit.

You might be a great fit for our team if you want to:

• Accelerate your growth—skip the corporate ladder and forge your own path.
• Embrace challenges and ambiguity; both failure and success are steps to solutions.
• Tackle the toughest problems in the space industry and reshape its future, working side by side on a team that’s bought into the mission.

Role Description:

We’re looking for an Avionics Test Engineer who will take ownership of the integration and testing of spacecraft avionics systems, ensuring electronics are validated under flight-like conditions. You’ll collaborate across avionics, systems, and mechanical teams to build test infrastructure, automate test workflows, and verify our spacecraft meets mission-critical requirements. 
 
This is a hands-on role for someone who can design, execute, and improve test procedures in a startup environment where adaptability and resourcefulness are essential. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, execution, and documentation of electrical V&V, comprehensive performance testing, and environmental qualification for board-level and package electronics assemblies. 

• Work directly with electrical engineers and technicians to prepare, instrument, and run tests. 

• Build and maintain test fixtures and test rack assemblies to facilitate repeated test campaigns. 

• Develop robust test software and scripts in languages like python, LabVIEW, or C++. 

• Create and maintain detailed test procedures, data collection protocols, and results reports. 

• Execute safe-to-mate and continuity testing on flight harness assemblies. 

• Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot, iterate, and validate designs based on test outcomes. 

• Ensure test activities meet relevant aerospace standards and quality requirements. 

• Manage test equipment calibration, maintenance, and readiness. 

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Computer Engineering (or equivalent experience). 

• 3+ years of hands-on test engineering experience (avionics, electronics, or hardware-heavy industry preferred). 

• Proficiency with instrumentation (oscilloscopes, DAQs, spectrum analyzers, DMMs, load cells, etc.). 

• Experience writing automation in python, LabVIEW, or similar environments. 

• Understanding of electronics design and ability to interpret circuit schematics. 

• Ability to execute in a fast-paced, schedule-driven startup environment. 

Preferred:

• Experience with spacecraft avionics or spaceflight electronics testing. 

• Familiarity with aerospace environmental testing standards (DO-160, MIL-STD-461, EMI/EMC, TVAC). 

• Experience with LabVIEW, PXI, NI DAQmx, or custom automated test equipment. 

• PCB design experience for custom breakout boards and test fixtures.  

• Knowledge of embedded systems and communication protocols (SPI, I2C, UART, RS-422/485). 

Additional Requirements:

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

Compensation and Benefits:  

Anticipated salary range for this role is $95,000-$140,000

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.