Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role As K2's Crypto Engineer, you will own the architecture and design of our Type-1 cryptographic integrations across the spacecraft and ground segment. You will carry these designs cradle-to-grave - from concept and trade studies, through implementation and integration, to NSA certification and accreditation, and into on-orbit operations. You'll define how K2's satellites protect command, telemetry, and mission data; partner with NSA, government customers, and certification authorities; and ensure our COMSEC architecture meets the bar for national-security missions while fitting the pace and scale of a high-volume satellite production line. This is a foundational role: you'll set the cryptographic standards the rest of the program builds against. Responsibilities Own the end-to-end architecture and design of Type-1 cryptographic integrations across the spacecraft, payload, and ground segment Lead crypto designs from concept and trade studies through implementation, integration, certification, and on-orbit operations Define COMSEC architecture for command, telemetry, and mission data protection, including encryption, key management, and key loading approaches Serve as K2's primary technical interface to NSA, certification authorities, and government customers on cryptographic certification and accreditation Drive the certification and accreditation effort, developing the artifacts, test evidence, and documentation required to achieve and maintain approval to operate Partner with flight software, avionics, RF, ground, and security teams to integrate cryptographic functions into the broader system architecture Support COMSEC handling, key management planning, and operational procedures for on-orbit fleet operations Identify and mitigate cryptographic and supply-chain risks across design and production Establish reusable cryptographic standards, interfaces, and processes that scale across K2's satellite production line Qualifications Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a related discipline 5+ years of engineering experience with cryptographic systems, COMSEC, or secure communications Direct experience with NSA Type-1 cryptographic equipment, integration, and certification processes Working knowledge of key management, key loading, and COMSEC handling requirements Experience taking a hardware or system design through certification and accreditation to operational use Strong systems-level thinking with the ability to reason from first principles across hardware, software, and RF boundaries Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding startup atmosphere with competing priorities and aggressive schedules Nice to Have Experience with spacecraft, satellite, or other space-system cryptographic integrations Familiarity with cryptographic modernization initiatives and current NSA-approved algorithms and equipment Experience with RMF/ATO, JSIG, or other accreditation frameworks Background in RF, link design, or secure command and telemetry systems Experience supporting on-orbit or fielded operations Additional Requirements Ability to travel up to 25% of the time Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance required; ability to obtain and maintain access to additional programs as needed Ability to work irregular business hours to support critical project timelines or operations This role requires access to information controlled under ITAR/EAR; applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by applicable regulations Compensation and Benefits Base salary range for this role is $160,000 - $245,000 + equity in the company Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
09/30/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role As K2's Crypto Engineer, you will own the architecture and design of our Type-1 cryptographic integrations across the spacecraft and ground segment. You will carry these designs cradle-to-grave - from concept and trade studies, through implementation and integration, to NSA certification and accreditation, and into on-orbit operations. You'll define how K2's satellites protect command, telemetry, and mission data; partner with NSA, government customers, and certification authorities; and ensure our COMSEC architecture meets the bar for national-security missions while fitting the pace and scale of a high-volume satellite production line. This is a foundational role: you'll set the cryptographic standards the rest of the program builds against. Responsibilities Own the end-to-end architecture and design of Type-1 cryptographic integrations across the spacecraft, payload, and ground segment Lead crypto designs from concept and trade studies through implementation, integration, certification, and on-orbit operations Define COMSEC architecture for command, telemetry, and mission data protection, including encryption, key management, and key loading approaches Serve as K2's primary technical interface to NSA, certification authorities, and government customers on cryptographic certification and accreditation Drive the certification and accreditation effort, developing the artifacts, test evidence, and documentation required to achieve and maintain approval to operate Partner with flight software, avionics, RF, ground, and security teams to integrate cryptographic functions into the broader system architecture Support COMSEC handling, key management planning, and operational procedures for on-orbit fleet operations Identify and mitigate cryptographic and supply-chain risks across design and production Establish reusable cryptographic standards, interfaces, and processes that scale across K2's satellite production line Qualifications Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a related discipline 5+ years of engineering experience with cryptographic systems, COMSEC, or secure communications Direct experience with NSA Type-1 cryptographic equipment, integration, and certification processes Working knowledge of key management, key loading, and COMSEC handling requirements Experience taking a hardware or system design through certification and accreditation to operational use Strong systems-level thinking with the ability to reason from first principles across hardware, software, and RF boundaries Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding startup atmosphere with competing priorities and aggressive schedules Nice to Have Experience with spacecraft, satellite, or other space-system cryptographic integrations Familiarity with cryptographic modernization initiatives and current NSA-approved algorithms and equipment Experience with RMF/ATO, JSIG, or other accreditation frameworks Background in RF, link design, or secure command and telemetry systems Experience supporting on-orbit or fielded operations Additional Requirements Ability to travel up to 25% of the time Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance required; ability to obtain and maintain access to additional programs as needed Ability to work irregular business hours to support critical project timelines or operations This role requires access to information controlled under ITAR/EAR; applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by applicable regulations Compensation and Benefits Base salary range for this role is $160,000 - $245,000 + equity in the company Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Job Description Job Description Principal GNC Engineer Location: Playa Vista, California (in-person, five days per week) The return lane isn't going to build itself. Come build it with us. Outpost is an orbital logistics company rewriting the rules of global logistics by building reusable Earth-return vehicles that unlock in-space manufacturing, on-orbit warehousing, and 60-minute global delivery through space. Our CarryAll vehicle family returns payloads ranging from 200 kilograms to 10 metric tons, lands within 10 meters of its target, and can then be refurbished and launched again. One vehicle, many missions: responsive logistics and precision delivery for national security; commercial cargo moved with real cadence; R&D payloads flown, tested, and refined across repeatable cycles; and critical aid delivered where roads and runways can't reach. The demand is already here, validated through defense and civil agreements and supported by a growing pipeline of government and commercial customers. We have the customers, the team, and a clear technical path ahead of us. We're building the return lane. Come build it with us The Role Outpost is building vehicles that bring things back from space. Getting mass from orbit to a precise point on the ground is a GNC problem end to end: a deorbit burn that has to hit an entry corridor, a hypersonic entry that has to bleed energy inside structural and thermal limits, and a guided descent that has to land on a target, repeatably, and cheaply enough to do it often. We're hiring a Principal GNC Engineer to own that chain. This is not a role where you hand algorithms over a wall. You'll design the guidance and estimation architecture, write the flight code, put it on hardware, sit through the HIL runs, go out to the drop tests and flight campaigns, and come back with data that changes the design. If you want to see your controller fly within months rather than years, this is that job. Basic Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a related technical discipline with 5+ years as a GNC or Controls professional or Advanced degree with 3+ years as a GNC or Controls professional Software development experience in C++ and Python. Experience in software tools such as Git, Jira, and CI Pipeline Algorithms on real hardware (e.g. Extended Kalman Filters, LQR) Strong understanding of classical dynamics, modeling and simulation, classical and modern control. Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven atmosphere. Passion for space and the application of advanced estimation and control techniques in this domain Additional Qualifications: Experience with implementing optimal control for burn planning Experience with satellite maneuvering and thruster systems Demonstrated project or professional experience in satellite attitude determination and control Experience in end-to-end development of three axis stabilized spacecraft incorporating momentum, magnetic, and/or propulsive control. Experience with flexible body control, orbital maneuvering, filtering, fault management, software development, and navigation filtering. Responsibilities: Modeling, design, analysis, implementation and test of satellite attitude determination and control (ADCS) algorithms. Hardware performance specification including reaction wheel and torque rod sizing, sensor noise and performance, characteristics, redundancy and fault management. Define and own ADCS requirements definition with electrical and mechanical engineers Implement closed loop pointing, orbit raising, and station keeping algorithms for flight. Analyze platform stability to ensure low jitter of line-of-sight instruments. Develop high fidelity 6 degree of freedom satellite simulations using Python, Matlab or C++. Develop entry guidance, entry corridor and reachability analysis, deorbit burn targeting, aerothermal and load-constrained trajectory shaping. Develop EKF and UKF with GNSS, IMU, air data, radar or laser altimetry, magnetometers, and optical or terrain-relative sensors; sensor error modeling and calibration; GNSS-denied or degraded navigation, including through plasma blackout. Implement control of aerodynamically unstable or marginally stable vehicles, gain scheduling and robust control across wide Mach and dynamic pressure ranges, actuator and effector allocation, autonomous mode sequencing and abort logic. Support flight test campaigns at test sites - test planning, instrumentation requirements, real-time support, and flight data reconstruction. Compensation & Benefits: Salary: Principal: $190,000- $225,00, based on experience Additional Compensation: Annual performance-based bonuses that reward your impact. Shared upside: Meaningful equity in Outpost so you share directly in the value you help create. Comprehensive healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your loved ones covered. We cover the base tier of medical insurance and all premiums of vision and dental. Protection when it matters: Company-provided short- and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind, plus life insurance for even more security. PTO: Recharge on your own terms with paid time off, plus 9 days of paid holidays. Invest in your future: 401(k) with company match to help you build long-term wealth. Fueled for the mission: Daily DoorDash lunch stipend, plus unlimited snacks, coffee, and tea to keep you energized. Mission that matters: Work shoulder-to-shoulder with leaders from aerospace, new space, and deep-tech industries building the future of orbital infrastructure. Pet Friendly Office: Bring your furry friend into the office so that they can be a part of our mission too. Monthly Company Happy Hours and Events: Drinks at the local bar, hibachi nights, mini golfing and more! You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 , or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State
09/30/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description Principal GNC Engineer Location: Playa Vista, California (in-person, five days per week) The return lane isn't going to build itself. Come build it with us. Outpost is an orbital logistics company rewriting the rules of global logistics by building reusable Earth-return vehicles that unlock in-space manufacturing, on-orbit warehousing, and 60-minute global delivery through space. Our CarryAll vehicle family returns payloads ranging from 200 kilograms to 10 metric tons, lands within 10 meters of its target, and can then be refurbished and launched again. One vehicle, many missions: responsive logistics and precision delivery for national security; commercial cargo moved with real cadence; R&D payloads flown, tested, and refined across repeatable cycles; and critical aid delivered where roads and runways can't reach. The demand is already here, validated through defense and civil agreements and supported by a growing pipeline of government and commercial customers. We have the customers, the team, and a clear technical path ahead of us. We're building the return lane. Come build it with us The Role Outpost is building vehicles that bring things back from space. Getting mass from orbit to a precise point on the ground is a GNC problem end to end: a deorbit burn that has to hit an entry corridor, a hypersonic entry that has to bleed energy inside structural and thermal limits, and a guided descent that has to land on a target, repeatably, and cheaply enough to do it often. We're hiring a Principal GNC Engineer to own that chain. This is not a role where you hand algorithms over a wall. You'll design the guidance and estimation architecture, write the flight code, put it on hardware, sit through the HIL runs, go out to the drop tests and flight campaigns, and come back with data that changes the design. If you want to see your controller fly within months rather than years, this is that job. Basic Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a related technical discipline with 5+ years as a GNC or Controls professional or Advanced degree with 3+ years as a GNC or Controls professional Software development experience in C++ and Python. Experience in software tools such as Git, Jira, and CI Pipeline Algorithms on real hardware (e.g. Extended Kalman Filters, LQR) Strong understanding of classical dynamics, modeling and simulation, classical and modern control. Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven atmosphere. Passion for space and the application of advanced estimation and control techniques in this domain Additional Qualifications: Experience with implementing optimal control for burn planning Experience with satellite maneuvering and thruster systems Demonstrated project or professional experience in satellite attitude determination and control Experience in end-to-end development of three axis stabilized spacecraft incorporating momentum, magnetic, and/or propulsive control. Experience with flexible body control, orbital maneuvering, filtering, fault management, software development, and navigation filtering. Responsibilities: Modeling, design, analysis, implementation and test of satellite attitude determination and control (ADCS) algorithms. Hardware performance specification including reaction wheel and torque rod sizing, sensor noise and performance, characteristics, redundancy and fault management. Define and own ADCS requirements definition with electrical and mechanical engineers Implement closed loop pointing, orbit raising, and station keeping algorithms for flight. Analyze platform stability to ensure low jitter of line-of-sight instruments. Develop high fidelity 6 degree of freedom satellite simulations using Python, Matlab or C++. Develop entry guidance, entry corridor and reachability analysis, deorbit burn targeting, aerothermal and load-constrained trajectory shaping. Develop EKF and UKF with GNSS, IMU, air data, radar or laser altimetry, magnetometers, and optical or terrain-relative sensors; sensor error modeling and calibration; GNSS-denied or degraded navigation, including through plasma blackout. Implement control of aerodynamically unstable or marginally stable vehicles, gain scheduling and robust control across wide Mach and dynamic pressure ranges, actuator and effector allocation, autonomous mode sequencing and abort logic. Support flight test campaigns at test sites - test planning, instrumentation requirements, real-time support, and flight data reconstruction. Compensation & Benefits: Salary: Principal: $190,000- $225,00, based on experience Additional Compensation: Annual performance-based bonuses that reward your impact. Shared upside: Meaningful equity in Outpost so you share directly in the value you help create. Comprehensive healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your loved ones covered. We cover the base tier of medical insurance and all premiums of vision and dental. Protection when it matters: Company-provided short- and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind, plus life insurance for even more security. PTO: Recharge on your own terms with paid time off, plus 9 days of paid holidays. Invest in your future: 401(k) with company match to help you build long-term wealth. Fueled for the mission: Daily DoorDash lunch stipend, plus unlimited snacks, coffee, and tea to keep you energized. Mission that matters: Work shoulder-to-shoulder with leaders from aerospace, new space, and deep-tech industries building the future of orbital infrastructure. Pet Friendly Office: Bring your furry friend into the office so that they can be a part of our mission too. Monthly Company Happy Hours and Events: Drinks at the local bar, hibachi nights, mini golfing and more! You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 , or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State
Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role From day one, you'll be hands-on with our integrated satellite-level test campaign, diving deep into the K2 bus and laying the foundation for what comes next. Within your first few months, you'll help define how we operate our first mission - shaping the tools, systems, and philosophy behind Mission Operations. As we move toward launch, you'll be at the heart of it all. Over the following year, your impact will grow: evolving our playbook from that first mission, scaling it to support multi-satellite operations, and ultimately pioneering the systems needed for full constellation control. The path to operating dozens-or hundreds-of satellites will be yours to help chart. The success of our constellations will depend on the foundations you help build. Responsibilities Define and operationalize our Mission operations concept for the first satellite mission, including procedures, tools, and real-time support systems Develop telemetry monitoring strategies, fault response frameworks, and command plans for pre-launch, LEOP, and nominal operations Collaborate closely with systems, software, and hardware teams to ensure operational readiness across all spacecraft subsystems Drive the roadmap for mission operations tooling, ground segment workflows, and long-term constellation management Serve as a key operator during on-orbit operations, responsible for real-time decision-making and coordination Operate spacecraft (interpret telemetry, send commands) during system tests at the factory, test facilities, launch sites, and during pre-launch operations Interface with customers to scope testing performed on their payloads, based on expected functions and failure modes of interest Assess risks associated with different integration and test approaches, justify test reductions and optimize vehicle build/test flows for at-rate production Qualifications Bachelor's degree in electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, or other relevant engineering discipline 10+ years of experience in an operations/integration/automation engineering role including 4 years of direct experience operating satellites on-orbit Experience testing and troubleshooting spacecraft and their related components and systems, including subsystem checkouts and system acceptance testing Familiarity with mission operations concepts such as LEOP, telemetry, commanding, fault protection, and anomaly resolution Experience building or contributing to custom tooling for telemetry, analysis, data pipelines, or operational dashboards Background in designing or scaling operational architectures for fleets or constellations Experience with scripting or automation tools (e.g. Python, Rust) Excellent conflict resolution and negotiation skills Nice to Have Hands-on experience with HITL or Flatsat software verification testbeds Experience working with GAaaS providers. Experience with Linux systems Experience managing contractual interfaces (e.g. customer, launch vehicle) Compensation and Benefits Base salary range for this role is $180,000 - $210,000 + equity in the company Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
09/29/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role From day one, you'll be hands-on with our integrated satellite-level test campaign, diving deep into the K2 bus and laying the foundation for what comes next. Within your first few months, you'll help define how we operate our first mission - shaping the tools, systems, and philosophy behind Mission Operations. As we move toward launch, you'll be at the heart of it all. Over the following year, your impact will grow: evolving our playbook from that first mission, scaling it to support multi-satellite operations, and ultimately pioneering the systems needed for full constellation control. The path to operating dozens-or hundreds-of satellites will be yours to help chart. The success of our constellations will depend on the foundations you help build. Responsibilities Define and operationalize our Mission operations concept for the first satellite mission, including procedures, tools, and real-time support systems Develop telemetry monitoring strategies, fault response frameworks, and command plans for pre-launch, LEOP, and nominal operations Collaborate closely with systems, software, and hardware teams to ensure operational readiness across all spacecraft subsystems Drive the roadmap for mission operations tooling, ground segment workflows, and long-term constellation management Serve as a key operator during on-orbit operations, responsible for real-time decision-making and coordination Operate spacecraft (interpret telemetry, send commands) during system tests at the factory, test facilities, launch sites, and during pre-launch operations Interface with customers to scope testing performed on their payloads, based on expected functions and failure modes of interest Assess risks associated with different integration and test approaches, justify test reductions and optimize vehicle build/test flows for at-rate production Qualifications Bachelor's degree in electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, or other relevant engineering discipline 10+ years of experience in an operations/integration/automation engineering role including 4 years of direct experience operating satellites on-orbit Experience testing and troubleshooting spacecraft and their related components and systems, including subsystem checkouts and system acceptance testing Familiarity with mission operations concepts such as LEOP, telemetry, commanding, fault protection, and anomaly resolution Experience building or contributing to custom tooling for telemetry, analysis, data pipelines, or operational dashboards Background in designing or scaling operational architectures for fleets or constellations Experience with scripting or automation tools (e.g. Python, Rust) Excellent conflict resolution and negotiation skills Nice to Have Hands-on experience with HITL or Flatsat software verification testbeds Experience working with GAaaS providers. Experience with Linux systems Experience managing contractual interfaces (e.g. customer, launch vehicle) Compensation and Benefits Base salary range for this role is $180,000 - $210,000 + equity in the company Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Job Description Job Description Overview Test and Evaluation Manager (Principal) LOCATION: Wright-Patterson AFB, OH JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: SECRET TRAVEL: 10-25% Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Test and Evaluation Manager located at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH working with the Air Force Division. Join the team supporting the F-15 program-one of the most operationally lethal and enduring fighter aircraft platforms in the world. As the workhorse of the U.S. Air Force, the F-15 has proven itself as the most lethal and reliable combat aircraft in service, with unmatched speed, agility, and payload capacity. Our program team consists of dedicated, mission-focused professionals who bring technical expertise, operational insight, and a commitment to excellence in support of this critical national defense capability. Be part of a program that directly impacts air superiority, national defense, deterrence, and alliances across the world. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Expert knowledge, experience and recognized ability to be considered an industry leader in their technical/professional field. Typically performs the following kinds of functions: initiates, oversees, and/or develops requirements from a project's inception to conclusion for complex to extremely complex programs; provides strategic advice, technical guidance, and expertise to program and project staff; provides detailed analyses, evaluations, and recommendations for improvements, optimization development, and/or maintenance efforts for client-specific or mission critical challenges/issues; consults with client to define needs or problems; oversees studies; and leads surveys to collect and analyze data to provide advice and recommend solutions. Have a minimum of ten (10) years of experience as a US military fighter/bomber, pilot, or weapons systems officer background and an understanding of 4th/5th generation fighter weapons systems integration operational employment and weapons capability and software development processes. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in test and evaluation/test management, to include software development, test planning, certification, and evaluation. Minimum of ten (10) years of experience supporting the requirements of the foreign partner through the FMS programs/policies. Possesses the ability to perform tasks and oversee the efforts of junior, journeyman, and senior contractor personnel within and across multiple technical/professional disciplines. 30 years of directly related experience with proper certifications, 20 years of which must be in the DoD, OR Bachelor's Degree in a related field and 25 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 15 years of which must be in the DoD, OR Master's or Doctorate Degree in a related field and at least 20 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 12 years of which must be in the DoD. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Leadership experience in wide/varied operational and test organizations and fighter/bomber platforms; operational experience as a pilot or weapons system operator in a test environment; 4th generation fighter aircraft, systems, and subsystems familiarity; the ability to travel frequently for program reviews and/or site visits; and other airframe, system and sub-system Contractor, test range and laboratory, or customer locations as directed/required. Finish Ability to provide detailed analyses, evaluations, and recommendations for improvements, optimization development, and/or maintenance efforts for client-specific or mission critical challenges/issues. Have a general understanding of current DoD and USAF-specific acquisition regulations, guidelines, and processes. RESPONSIBILITIES Supports complex FMS test tasks coordinating and managing test planning, development and execution.
09/28/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description Overview Test and Evaluation Manager (Principal) LOCATION: Wright-Patterson AFB, OH JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: SECRET TRAVEL: 10-25% Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Test and Evaluation Manager located at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH working with the Air Force Division. Join the team supporting the F-15 program-one of the most operationally lethal and enduring fighter aircraft platforms in the world. As the workhorse of the U.S. Air Force, the F-15 has proven itself as the most lethal and reliable combat aircraft in service, with unmatched speed, agility, and payload capacity. Our program team consists of dedicated, mission-focused professionals who bring technical expertise, operational insight, and a commitment to excellence in support of this critical national defense capability. Be part of a program that directly impacts air superiority, national defense, deterrence, and alliances across the world. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Expert knowledge, experience and recognized ability to be considered an industry leader in their technical/professional field. Typically performs the following kinds of functions: initiates, oversees, and/or develops requirements from a project's inception to conclusion for complex to extremely complex programs; provides strategic advice, technical guidance, and expertise to program and project staff; provides detailed analyses, evaluations, and recommendations for improvements, optimization development, and/or maintenance efforts for client-specific or mission critical challenges/issues; consults with client to define needs or problems; oversees studies; and leads surveys to collect and analyze data to provide advice and recommend solutions. Have a minimum of ten (10) years of experience as a US military fighter/bomber, pilot, or weapons systems officer background and an understanding of 4th/5th generation fighter weapons systems integration operational employment and weapons capability and software development processes. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in test and evaluation/test management, to include software development, test planning, certification, and evaluation. Minimum of ten (10) years of experience supporting the requirements of the foreign partner through the FMS programs/policies. Possesses the ability to perform tasks and oversee the efforts of junior, journeyman, and senior contractor personnel within and across multiple technical/professional disciplines. 30 years of directly related experience with proper certifications, 20 years of which must be in the DoD, OR Bachelor's Degree in a related field and 25 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 15 years of which must be in the DoD, OR Master's or Doctorate Degree in a related field and at least 20 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 12 years of which must be in the DoD. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS Leadership experience in wide/varied operational and test organizations and fighter/bomber platforms; operational experience as a pilot or weapons system operator in a test environment; 4th generation fighter aircraft, systems, and subsystems familiarity; the ability to travel frequently for program reviews and/or site visits; and other airframe, system and sub-system Contractor, test range and laboratory, or customer locations as directed/required. Finish Ability to provide detailed analyses, evaluations, and recommendations for improvements, optimization development, and/or maintenance efforts for client-specific or mission critical challenges/issues. Have a general understanding of current DoD and USAF-specific acquisition regulations, guidelines, and processes. RESPONSIBILITIES Supports complex FMS test tasks coordinating and managing test planning, development and execution.
Job Description Job Description ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. PRINCIPAL SPACECRAFT GUIDANCE NAVIGATION AND CONTROL (GNC) ENGINEER - SECRET CLEARANCE Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Principal Spacecraft GNC Engineer - Secret Clearance is responsible for leading GNC and ADCS development for Rocket Lab's growing fleet of diverse spacecraft. You will demonstrate a firm grasp of spacecraft GNC concepts and applications. You will work with all facets of the engineering life cycle: spacecraft concept and algorithm development, flight software implementation, subsystem requirements development, detailed GNC design, subsystem integration & test (I&T), and vehicle I&T. You will be responsible for planning and maintaining the development schedule to support the Space Systems Software organization in executing leading edge programs and products. You will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Avionics, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. You will also directly interact with customers to ensure mission success. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Mentor a team responsible for GNC design, modeling, and analysis for a wide variety of spacecraft and space missions to include LEO, MEO, GEO, Lunar, Interplanetary, Reentry, and RPOD Design of flight software, algorithms, and simulation product Development of spacecraft autonomy tools for constellation management GNC component selection and GNC subsystem design Test process development and execution Define fault detection and response Hardware-in-the-loop and Monte Carlo simulation Integration of flight and simulation software with modern analysis, test, and operations tools Support internal and external design reviews Work with department leads and program managers to plan and maintain team schedule and milestones and report technical status Coordinate with teams in Denver, Colorado and New Zealand YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PRINCIPAL SPACECRAFT GNC ENGINEER : B.S and 12+ years of industry experience in GNC/ADCS Active Secret clearance, with ability to obtain TS/SCI Prior experience directly interfacing with aerospace customers in the commercial or government sectors U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: MS or PhD 2+ years of RPOD design and operations experience Active TS/SCI clearance Experience in Jira planning and workflow Prior experiencing mentoring a team of younger engineers Hands-on experience with IMU, reaction wheels, star trackers, gyroscopes, and other GNC hardware Experience developing blended attitude solutions from a variety of sensor data Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and verifying flight software Demonstrated experience with spacecraft on-orbit operations and anomaly resolution Prior experience leading a team across a project lifecycle (not necessarily a spacecraft, not necessarily a whole GNC system) Prior experience working multiple projects simultaneously and determining priorities for a team Experience with GNC-related Business Development or conceptual design work This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance. Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package , giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Total Compensation (base and equity) $247,000-$376,000 USD Base Salary $195,000-$295,000 USD WHAT TO EXPECT We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
09/28/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. PRINCIPAL SPACECRAFT GUIDANCE NAVIGATION AND CONTROL (GNC) ENGINEER - SECRET CLEARANCE Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Principal Spacecraft GNC Engineer - Secret Clearance is responsible for leading GNC and ADCS development for Rocket Lab's growing fleet of diverse spacecraft. You will demonstrate a firm grasp of spacecraft GNC concepts and applications. You will work with all facets of the engineering life cycle: spacecraft concept and algorithm development, flight software implementation, subsystem requirements development, detailed GNC design, subsystem integration & test (I&T), and vehicle I&T. You will be responsible for planning and maintaining the development schedule to support the Space Systems Software organization in executing leading edge programs and products. You will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Avionics, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. You will also directly interact with customers to ensure mission success. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Mentor a team responsible for GNC design, modeling, and analysis for a wide variety of spacecraft and space missions to include LEO, MEO, GEO, Lunar, Interplanetary, Reentry, and RPOD Design of flight software, algorithms, and simulation product Development of spacecraft autonomy tools for constellation management GNC component selection and GNC subsystem design Test process development and execution Define fault detection and response Hardware-in-the-loop and Monte Carlo simulation Integration of flight and simulation software with modern analysis, test, and operations tools Support internal and external design reviews Work with department leads and program managers to plan and maintain team schedule and milestones and report technical status Coordinate with teams in Denver, Colorado and New Zealand YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PRINCIPAL SPACECRAFT GNC ENGINEER : B.S and 12+ years of industry experience in GNC/ADCS Active Secret clearance, with ability to obtain TS/SCI Prior experience directly interfacing with aerospace customers in the commercial or government sectors U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: MS or PhD 2+ years of RPOD design and operations experience Active TS/SCI clearance Experience in Jira planning and workflow Prior experiencing mentoring a team of younger engineers Hands-on experience with IMU, reaction wheels, star trackers, gyroscopes, and other GNC hardware Experience developing blended attitude solutions from a variety of sensor data Demonstrated experience developing, implementing, and verifying flight software Demonstrated experience with spacecraft on-orbit operations and anomaly resolution Prior experience leading a team across a project lifecycle (not necessarily a spacecraft, not necessarily a whole GNC system) Prior experience working multiple projects simultaneously and determining priorities for a team Experience with GNC-related Business Development or conceptual design work This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance. Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package , giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Total Compensation (base and equity) $247,000-$376,000 USD Base Salary $195,000-$295,000 USD WHAT TO EXPECT We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
Job Description Job Description A New Paradigm For Space Operations. Who We Are: Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different - an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures - where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster. This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space. What You'll Do: The Principal Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer will lead the development of an entirely new GNC architecture for Space Kinetic's first-of-its-kind spacecraft platform. You will own the GNC subsystem across its full lifecycle, from early concept development and algorithm design through simulation, hardware integration, verification, and mission operations. You will lead a cross-functional GNC team and collaborate with flight software, systems engineering, test, leadership, and external partners to deliver an integrated hardware and software solution. Job Responsibilities: Lead the GNC team and own the subsystem architecture, development schedule, requirements, interfaces, and technical milestones. Design and implement GNC algorithms for flight software and support their integration into the spacecraft platform. Lead GNC hardware trade studies, component selection, and the integration of internally and externally developed hardware and software. Conduct design analyses, Monte Carlo simulations, and hardware-in-the-loop testing to evaluate and validate system performance. Own subsystem verification and validation activities across simulation, testbed, and flight environments. Develop or contribute to ground tools used for mission and constellation management. Partner with subcontractors, internal teams, and senior leadership while supporting internal and external design reviews. What It Takes: Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. 7+ years of experience developing spacecraft GNC systems. Experience supporting spacecraft or satellite development and operations across the full project lifecycle. Experience developing GNC algorithms, conducting simulations, and performing hardware-in-the-loop testing. Ability to work cross-functionally across spacecraft subsystems and interface directly with commercial or government aerospace customers. Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance. What We'd Love: Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. Experience with flight software frameworks such as NASA cFS, F', or custom architectures. Familiarity with model-based systems engineering and interface control documentation. Where You'll Be: The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to 20% of the year). What We Offer: Equity-Based Compensation 401(k) retirement plan with a 3.5% company match Highly Competitive PTO Paid company holidays + winter break Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance Unique Performance-based bonus opportunities ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here Equal Employment Opportunity: Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity. Pay Range $195,000-$250,000 USD
09/28/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description A New Paradigm For Space Operations. Who We Are: Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different - an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures - where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster. This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space. What You'll Do: The Principal Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Engineer will lead the development of an entirely new GNC architecture for Space Kinetic's first-of-its-kind spacecraft platform. You will own the GNC subsystem across its full lifecycle, from early concept development and algorithm design through simulation, hardware integration, verification, and mission operations. You will lead a cross-functional GNC team and collaborate with flight software, systems engineering, test, leadership, and external partners to deliver an integrated hardware and software solution. Job Responsibilities: Lead the GNC team and own the subsystem architecture, development schedule, requirements, interfaces, and technical milestones. Design and implement GNC algorithms for flight software and support their integration into the spacecraft platform. Lead GNC hardware trade studies, component selection, and the integration of internally and externally developed hardware and software. Conduct design analyses, Monte Carlo simulations, and hardware-in-the-loop testing to evaluate and validate system performance. Own subsystem verification and validation activities across simulation, testbed, and flight environments. Develop or contribute to ground tools used for mission and constellation management. Partner with subcontractors, internal teams, and senior leadership while supporting internal and external design reviews. What It Takes: Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. 7+ years of experience developing spacecraft GNC systems. Experience supporting spacecraft or satellite development and operations across the full project lifecycle. Experience developing GNC algorithms, conducting simulations, and performing hardware-in-the-loop testing. Ability to work cross-functionally across spacecraft subsystems and interface directly with commercial or government aerospace customers. Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance. What We'd Love: Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. Experience with flight software frameworks such as NASA cFS, F', or custom architectures. Familiarity with model-based systems engineering and interface control documentation. Where You'll Be: The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. Domestic travel may be required (up to 20% of the year). What We Offer: Equity-Based Compensation 401(k) retirement plan with a 3.5% company match Highly Competitive PTO Paid company holidays + winter break Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance Unique Performance-based bonus opportunities ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here Equal Employment Opportunity: Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity. Pay Range $195,000-$250,000 USD
Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role Critical to achieving K2's vision is deploying our 20-kW high-power spacecraft platform at scale across MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space. Realizing that vision means actively controlling the heat generated by the high-power payloads our platform hosts. This requires active thermal control systems such as pumped fluid loops, built from fluid turbomachinery, valves, accumulators, and pressure and temperature instrumentation. Scaling to constellations requires someone who can span the mechanical, fluid, electromechanical, and thermal-fluid domains and collaborate closely with the thermal, avionics, software, and production teams to deliver these systems at rate. As Principal Turbomachinery Engineer, you will define how K2 designs, analyzes, manufactures, tests, integrates, and deploys precision turbomachinery for integration into active thermal control systems. You will own these unique pieces of turbomachinery from concept through integration and rate production. You will be responsible for mission-critical hardware which goes to space. Responsibilities Responsible for turbomachinery mechanisms in the spacecraft active thermal control system, including: Architectural down-selection, design, and tolerancing Pump- and mechanism-specific analyses (rotor dynamics, bearings and seals, hydraulic performance, structural, thermal-fluid) Environmental test and qualification plans Ground- and in-flight performance validation plans Supply chain and high-volume manufacturing trades Partner with the thermal and platform architecture teams to scope the long-term K2 pumped-fluid-loop roadmap, and system performance requirements Collaborate with thermal, structures, avionics, and satellite bus teams to determine optimal operations and requirements for the pump, supporting mechanisms, and broader fluid loop Prepare design reviews to secure stakeholder buy-in and communicate expectations across hardware, software, test, and manufacturing teams Own and refine program deliverables and schedules throughout development and production Evaluate and select manufacturing equipment for specialty processes (impeller machining, rotating-assembly balancing, leak/flow test) Partner with production to develop work instructions, in-process checkouts, and end-of-line tests Qualifications Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline 8+ years of experience with mechanical and/or electromechanical design and analysis 2+ years of experience design and analysis of turbomachinery in harsh environments Experience with CAD or FEA software packages Nice to Have Experience designing, building, and testing centrifugal or axial pumps for closed-loop thermal systems, including impeller geometry, volute/diffuser design, and hydraulic performance prediction Experience with NASA-STD-5017, SMC-S-016, and GSFC-STD-7000 for the design and qualification of in-space Moving Mechanism Assemblies Experience with bearing analysis, preload techniques, and preload measurement Experience with the practical application of GD&T Demonstrated ability to own moving mechanism assemblies across the full product lifecycle in a high velocity environment Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations Independent and self-motivated mindset, with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills across disciplines Compensation and Benefits: Base salary range for this role is $175,000 - $200,000 + equity in the company Salary and level will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
09/28/2026
Full time
Job Description Job Description K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply. The Role Critical to achieving K2's vision is deploying our 20-kW high-power spacecraft platform at scale across MEO, GEO, cis-lunar, and deep space. Realizing that vision means actively controlling the heat generated by the high-power payloads our platform hosts. This requires active thermal control systems such as pumped fluid loops, built from fluid turbomachinery, valves, accumulators, and pressure and temperature instrumentation. Scaling to constellations requires someone who can span the mechanical, fluid, electromechanical, and thermal-fluid domains and collaborate closely with the thermal, avionics, software, and production teams to deliver these systems at rate. As Principal Turbomachinery Engineer, you will define how K2 designs, analyzes, manufactures, tests, integrates, and deploys precision turbomachinery for integration into active thermal control systems. You will own these unique pieces of turbomachinery from concept through integration and rate production. You will be responsible for mission-critical hardware which goes to space. Responsibilities Responsible for turbomachinery mechanisms in the spacecraft active thermal control system, including: Architectural down-selection, design, and tolerancing Pump- and mechanism-specific analyses (rotor dynamics, bearings and seals, hydraulic performance, structural, thermal-fluid) Environmental test and qualification plans Ground- and in-flight performance validation plans Supply chain and high-volume manufacturing trades Partner with the thermal and platform architecture teams to scope the long-term K2 pumped-fluid-loop roadmap, and system performance requirements Collaborate with thermal, structures, avionics, and satellite bus teams to determine optimal operations and requirements for the pump, supporting mechanisms, and broader fluid loop Prepare design reviews to secure stakeholder buy-in and communicate expectations across hardware, software, test, and manufacturing teams Own and refine program deliverables and schedules throughout development and production Evaluate and select manufacturing equipment for specialty processes (impeller machining, rotating-assembly balancing, leak/flow test) Partner with production to develop work instructions, in-process checkouts, and end-of-line tests Qualifications Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline 8+ years of experience with mechanical and/or electromechanical design and analysis 2+ years of experience design and analysis of turbomachinery in harsh environments Experience with CAD or FEA software packages Nice to Have Experience designing, building, and testing centrifugal or axial pumps for closed-loop thermal systems, including impeller geometry, volute/diffuser design, and hydraulic performance prediction Experience with NASA-STD-5017, SMC-S-016, and GSFC-STD-7000 for the design and qualification of in-space Moving Mechanism Assemblies Experience with bearing analysis, preload techniques, and preload measurement Experience with the practical application of GD&T Demonstrated ability to own moving mechanism assemblies across the full product lifecycle in a high velocity environment Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations Independent and self-motivated mindset, with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills across disciplines Compensation and Benefits: Base salary range for this role is $175,000 - $200,000 + equity in the company Salary and level will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks If you don't meet 100% of the preferred skills and experience, we encourage you to still apply! Building a spacecraft unlike any other requires a team unlike any other and non-traditional career twists and turns are encouraged! If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know. Export Compliance As defined in the ITAR, "U.S. Persons" include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a "U.S. Person." The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license. Equal Opportunity K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.