AI&T Mechanical Technician

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:

As our AI&T Mechanical Technician, you’ll play a key role in bringing next-generation spacecraft and payloads to life. You’ll work closely with engineering and test teams to assemble mechanical subsystems, integrate complex components, and support testing of both flight and ground-based systems. Your work directly enables the autonomous capabilities that power real-time space domain awareness and on-orbit servicing.

This role is ideal for someone with a strong mechanical foundation, a passion for hands-on problem solving, and a desire to grow in a fast-moving startup environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Assembly & Integration

• Assemble mechanical subsystems for spacecraft, satellite payloads, and ground-based test articles.
• Integrate structural, thermal, electrical, and sensor components into complete systems.
• Support cleanroom operations, including hardware handling and contamination control.

Test Execution

• Set up and operate mechanical test equipment (e.g., vibration tables, thermal chambers, alignment rigs).
• Support environmental testing, fit checks, deployment tests, and functional test campaigns.
• Maintain detailed logs of test setups, procedures, and results.

Tooling & Fabrication

• Fabricate fixtures, mounts, and support hardware using standard shop tools.
• Work closely with engineers to provide feedback on manufacturability and integration processes.

Process & Documentation

• Interpret and follow detailed engineering drawings, work instructions, and procedures.
• Support design reviews and assist with design-for-assembly feedback.
• Track and report non-conformances and support root cause analysis.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Associate’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related technology field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 3+ years in mechanical assembly and testing of aerospace, automotive, or complex electromechanical systems.
• Proficient with hand tools, measurement tools, torquing practices, and mechanical fastener standards.
• Experience working in an R&D or low-rate production environment.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and BOMs.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (required for export compliance).

Preferred:

• Experience with cleanroom or ESD-safe practices.
• Familiarity with spacecraft structures, deployable mechanisms, or optical payloads.
• Experience supporting environmental test campaigns (vibe, thermal vacuum, shock).
• Comfortable with rapid prototyping, iterative build/test cycles, and working across disciplines.

Additional Requirements:

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

Compensation and Benefits:  

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. The anticipated pay range for this position is $36–$45/hour (based on qualifications and experience).

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.