About the role

K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by $450M from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, Redpoint Ventures, T. Rowe Price, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Alpine Space Ventures, and others – with an additional $500M in signed contracts across commercial and US government customers – we’re mass-producing the highest-power satellite platforms ever built for missions from LEO to deep space.

The rise of heavy-lift launch vehicles is shifting the industry from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance, and we believe this new era demands a fundamentally different class of spacecraft. Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today’s and tomorrow’s massive rockets, K2 satellites deliver unmatched capability at constellation scale and across multiple orbits.

With multiple launches planned through 2026 and 2027, we're Building Bigger to develop the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a groundbreaking Series C space startup, we’d love for you to apply.

The Role

You will play a pivotal role in driving the overall development and integration of our satellite bus for mission success. You will be primarily responsible for successful K2 missions, acting as a deputy program manager internally and with customers. You will work across engineering, production, and business development to deliver reliable flight systems on time. You will own bus-level design integration and champion technical readiness from concept through launch.

In this role, you will collaborate with a highly skilled, cross-disciplinary team to develop innovative solutions for complex challenges, ensuring alignment with mission requirements and customer expectations. Our fast-paced, startup environment demands a proactive, adaptable leader who thrives in high-stakes scenarios, navigates ambiguity, and delivers results under aggressive timelines. 

If you are a self-starter with a passion for innovation in space systems, a drive to solve previously unsolved problems, and a commitment to delivering world class satellite solutions, we want you on our team. 

Responsibilities

Program Leadership: Develop and manage engineering and program schedule, vehicle design, critical performance trades, resource allocation, and mission success

Strategic Development: Define bus-level milestones, requirements, and long-term objectives in collaboration with stakeholders

Program Execution: Drive engineering and flight readiness activities to meet mission and contract commitments

Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with engineering teams to assess vehicle readiness, manage technical changes, and mitigate risks

Systems Development: Establish and improve engineering processes, reviews, and analysis frameworks to support K2 growth

Design Reliability: Support internal design reviews and development ensuring adherence to requirements and high reliability

Operate effectively in a rapidly evolving startup where agility, autonomy, and proactive problem-solving are essential

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, or other relevant engineering discipline

6+ years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing

3+ years of experience managing projects, technical trades, and/or technical teams

Strong understanding of launch vehicles, spacecraft, or other aerospace systems

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Nice to Have

Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering or science discipline

10+ years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing

5+ years of experience managing projects or technical trades

Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance
Skills & Tags
go ai ios data product design

Aplyr's read

K2 Space is a cutting-edge aerospace company focused on satellite systems and space exploration, attracting engineers and specialists in advanced space technologies.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•Strong focus on satellite systems positions K2 Space at the forefront of space exploration technology.
•Recent hiring spree indicates growth and demand for specialized engineering talent.
•Emphasis on solar technology suggests innovation in sustainable space solutions.

What to watch

•High specialization may limit opportunities for generalists or entry-level candidates.
•Rapid growth could strain existing resources and infrastructure.
•Competitive aerospace industry may pose challenges in maintaining technological edge.

Why K2 Space

•K2 Space's focus on solar technology in space applications is distinctive.
•The company's involvement in both satellite systems and space exploration is relatively rare.
•Hiring for niche roles like Principal PCB Designer highlights specialized expertise.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?