Quality Inspector

K2 Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in company

Medical/dental/vision coverage

Paid time off

Paid parental leave

Job summary

K2 Space is seeking a Quality Inspector to establish and execute strong quality control processes for the Mega-class satellite production line in Los Angeles. You will drive first article inspections and in-process checks, and document results in ERP/MES systems.

The role requires hands-on use of precision measuring tools, knowledge of ITAR/AS9100 requirements, and collaboration with Engineering, Supply Chain and Production to sustain high-quality output for space-grade hardware.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of quality inspection experience in an engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, or quality-related field.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring equipment and techniques.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems for tracking inventory and inspection results.
• Knowledge of ESD handling procedures and ITAR compliance requirements.
• Experience with AS9100 or similar quality management systems.
• Certification in aerospace standards (IPC-610, IPC-620, J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739.3, NASA-STD-8739.4)

Responsibilities

• Perform rigorous First Article Inspections (FAIRs) of CNC machined and waterjet parts.
• Follow Inspection Procedures and Work Instructions to inspect large metallic parts using precision measuring tools.
• Utilize specialized equipment to perform inspections of power system hardware such as solar modules and battery cells.
• Perform visual inspections of PCBAs, harnesses, and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Document and maintain accurate documentation within the ERP and MES systems.
• Assist with final walkdown inspections of the fully integrated Mega-class satellite.
• Support inventory management efforts of incoming hardware and components

Skills

Precision measuring equipment

ERP/MES systems knowledge

ESD handling procedures

ITAR compliance knowledge

AS9100 knowledge

Tools

NX/Teamcenter CAD/PLM

ASME Y14.5 drawings

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

You will play a critical role in establishing and implementing quality standards at K2 Space from the ground up, overseeing the full quality control process from initial setup through full-scale production of the Mega-class satellite. This role will focus on developing and implementing quality control procedures for structural, electrical, and electro-mechanical components. Collaborating with Engineering, Supply Chain and Production teams, you will fully optimize inspection and quality control processes, drive corrective/preventive action, support AS9100 certification efforts, and support flight missions.

Responsibilities

• Perform rigorous First Article Inspections (FAIRs) of CNC machined and waterjet parts
• Follow Inspection Procedures and Work Instructions to inspect large metallic parts using a variety of precision measuring tools, including height and bore gauges, pin gauges, calipers, CMMs, etc.
• Utilize specialized equipment to perform inspections of power system hardware such as solar modules and battery cells
• Perform visual inspections of PCBAs, harnesses, and electro-mechanical assemblies
• Document and maintain accurate documentation within the ERP and MES systems
• Assist with final walkdown inspections of the fully integrated Mega-class satellite
• Support inventory management efforts of incoming hardware and components

Qualifications

• 4+ years of quality inspection experience in an engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, or quality-related field
• Proficiency in using precision measuring equipment and techniques
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems for tracking inventory and inspection results
• Knowledge of ESD handling procedures and ITAR compliance requirements
• Experience with AS9100 or similar quality management systems
• Certification in aerospace standards (IPC-610, IPC-620, J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739.3, NASA-STD-8739.4)

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with CAD and PLM software (NX, Teamcenter or similar CAD and PLM tools)
• Proficient in reviewing drawings in accordance with ASME Y14.5
• Forklift certified or able to get a forklift certification
• Experience working in a cleanroom environment
• Strong communication skills with ability to describe hardware and systems problems

Additional Requirements

• Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed
• Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces
• Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 25 lbs. unassisted

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $30 - $45 + equity in the company
• Compensation 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.”

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.