Senior Build Engineer (Satellite Integration)

K2 Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in space development is seeking a Senior Build Engineer to oversee the build campaign for their Mega class satellite. The role involves optimizing build processes, collaborating with production teams, and ensuring timely delivery. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in integration engineering and a background in aerospace or related fields. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including unlimited PTO and medical coverage.

Benefits

Unlimited PTO

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Parental Leave

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in an integration engineering role.
• Experience with CAD software and models.
• Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop integration planning and satellite build flows for the K2 Mega class satellite.
• Collaborate with production to define and iterate on solutions that increase build efficiency.
• Serve as the integration point of contact for TVAC.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Negotiation Skills

Multitasking

Education

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

Tools

CAD Software

Python

Rust

GraphQL

Linux Systems

Job description

K2 Space is building large, high-powered spacecraft for the next generation of space development. Backed by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Altimeter Capital, and many others (($180M raised to date)), we aim to mass produce the highest-powered satellite platforms ever built for missions across LEO to Deep Space.

The rise of launch vehicles like Falcon 9 and Starship enables the transition from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance. We believe this new era requires spacecraft with a fundamentally different design to fully utilize the massive rockets coming to market.

We’re a team that believes the future lies in building large, high-powered satellites capable of handling multiple orbits. This is essential for developing the solar system and becoming a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization.

If you are motivated, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are excited about contributing to a groundbreaking Series B space startup, we encourage you to apply.

The Role

As a Senior Build Engineer, you will be responsible for the build campaign of the Gravitas mission, K2’s first flight of the Mega class satellite. You will develop knowledge of all vehicle subsystems, interfacing with various teams across the company. Your role involves developing the build flow, optimizing build order, and adapting to vehicle issues during integration and testing to ensure on-schedule delivery. The ideal candidate will be able to clarify ambiguity and thrive as an autonomous team member.

Responsibilities

1. Develop integration planning and satellite build flows for the K2 Mega class satellite at the system level.
2. Collaborate with production to define, create, and iterate on solutions that increase build efficiency.
3. Work with engineers and technicians to address nonconformances and evaluate corrective actions.
4. Serve as the integration point of contact for TVAC.
5. Evaluate proposed designs for manufacturability and integration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, or related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in an integration engineering role (including internships and hardware-intensive extracurricular projects).
• Experience creating, improving, and deleting production processes and workflows.
• Experience with CAD software and models.
• Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment.
• Experience leading lift operations.
• Experience creating GSE, tooling, or shipping containers for production support.
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Strong multitasking abilities to juggle priorities and meet program goals.

Nice to Have

• Proficiency in Python and/or Rust.
• Experience in testing or automation roles.
• Experience with GraphQL.
• Familiarity with Linux systems.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary range: $130,000 - $180,000 + equity.
• Salary based on knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including unlimited PTO, medical/dental/vision, life insurance, parental leave, and more.

We encourage candidates who do not meet 100% of the preferred skills to apply, as building a unique spacecraft requires a diverse team. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please let us know.

Export Compliance

As per ITAR, “U.S. Persons” include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain protected individuals. The role involves access to information controlled by U.S. export regulations, and eligibility for a license is required.

Equal Opportunity

K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or other protected status.