Principal Satellite Platform Engineer

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

The rise of heavy-lift launch vehicles is shifting the industry from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance, and we believe this new era demands a fundamentally different class of spacecraft. Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today’s and tomorrow’s massive rockets, K2 satellites deliver unmatched capability at constellation scale and across multiple orbits. With multiple launches planned through 2026 and 2027, we're Building Bigger to develop the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization.

If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a groundbreaking Series C space startup, we’d love for you to apply. The Role You will play a pivotal role in driving the overall development and integration of our satellite bus for mission success. You will be primarily responsible for successful K2 missions, acting as a deputy program manager internally and with customers.

You will work across engineering, production, and business development to deliver reliable flight systems on time. You will own bus-level design integration and champion technical readiness from concept through launch.

Requirements

and customer expectations. Our fast-paced, startup environment demands a proactive, adaptable leader who thrives in high-stakes scenarios, navigates ambiguity, and delivers results under aggressive timelines. If you are a self-starter with a passion for innovation in space systems, a drive to solve previously unsolved problems, and a commitment to delivering world class satellite solutions, we want you on our team.

, and long-term objectives in collaboration with stakeholders Program Execution: Drive engineering and flight readiness activities to meet mission and contract commitments Cross-Functional Integration: Work closely with engineering teams to assess vehicle readiness, manage technical changes, and mitigate risks Systems Development: Establish and improve engineering processes, reviews, and analysis frameworks to support K2 growth Design Reliability: Support internal design reviews and development ensuring adherence to

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

Responsibilities

Program Leadership: Develop and manage engineering and program schedule, vehicle design, critical performance trades, resource allocation, and mission success Strategic Development: Define bus-level milestones,

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in electrical, aerospace, mechanical, computer, or other relevant engineering discipline 6+ years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing 3+ years of experience managing projects, technical trades, and/or technical teams Strong understanding of launch vehicles, spacecraft, or other aerospace systems Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Nice To Have

Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering or science discipline 10+ years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing 5+ years of experience managing projects or technical trades Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance Experience leading Spacecraft mission design, development, integration, test, and/