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← Katalyst Space Technologies

Mechanical Engineer II, Structures & Layout

Katalyst Space Technologies
Location
Broomfield, Colorado, United States
Posted
1 month ago
Department
Engineering
Salary
$110,000 - $140,000
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline
  • 3-4 years of experience designing, packaging, analyzing, and releasing mechanical hardware for spacecraft, launch vehicles, aircraft, robotics, defense systems, or other high-reliability products
  • Demonstrated proficiency with 3D CAD for complex assemblies and top-level layouts, including configuration management, interface definition, and detailed drawing release
  • Strong mechanical fundamentals including statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, load paths, stiffness, joints/fasteners, vibration, thermal effects, and material failure modes
  • Experience performing hand calculations and structural analysis using FEA to assess static strength, modal behavior, vibration, shock, or related flight environments
  • Ability to work across mechanical, electrical, avionics, GNC, propulsion, thermal, manufacturing, quality, and systems teams to resolve interface and integration issues
Nice to have
  • Experience developing spacecraft structures or payload mechanical systems through qualification and flight integration
  • Experience owning spacecraft configuration/layout, mechanical architecture, equipment placement, or payload packaging on a tightly integrated vehicle
  • Experience integrating avionics, harnesses, propulsion components, tanks, thermal hardware, GNC sensors, mechanisms, or payloads into constrained spacecraft volumes
  • Experience in startup or rapid-development environments with minimal oversight and frequent design iteration
  • Systems-level mindset and ability to understand how a mechanical layout decision affects thermal, electrical, GNC, mass properties, and operations
What the job really is

As a Mechanical Engineer II at Katalyst, you will support the design and integration of spacecraft mechanical systems from concept through to flight. Your responsibilities will include developing CAD assemblies, performing structural analyses, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to resolve integration challenges. You will also participate in design reviews and ensure that engineering documentation meets high-quality standards.

Benefits
  • Base salary determined on a case-by-case basis, anticipated range of $110,000 - $140,000 annually
  • Eligibility for long-term incentives through the Employee Stock Option and Equity Plan
  • Relocation bonus and other discretionary bonuses
  • Access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
Things to weigh
  • No specific mention of the technology stack or tools used
  • Role requires adherence to ITAR regulations, which may limit non-US applicants
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed
Job score4/5
Benefits3/5
Freshness4/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity4/5
Pay transparency5/5

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