This paper describes a method for evaluating the kinetic constants in a rate expression for catalytic combustion applications using experimental light-off curves. The method uses a transient one-dimensional single channel monolith finite element reactor model to simulate reactor performance. This model includes developing flow in the reactor entrance region. A parameter global optimization routine based on a Generalized Pattern Search algorithm is used to determine the best fit parameters in the rate expression for the oxidation of CO and mixtures of CO and CH₄. The algorithm is compared to a more classical gradient method, the Fletcher-Reeves method.