Joblaze summary

In the role of Mission Payload Engineer at K2 Space, the individual will manage the integration of advanced payloads onto satellite platforms throughout the entire program lifecycle, from initial proposals to on-orbit operations. Key skills include a strong background in multi-disciplinary engineering, technical project management, and hands-on experience with spacecraft systems, particularly in mechanical and electrical interfaces. This position is ideal for candidates with at least two years in the aerospace industry and a knack for effective communication, especially in high-pressure environments. K2 Space is a rapidly growing company focused on innovative satellite technology, making thi

Joblaze insights

Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on K2 Space's careers page October 27, 2026.
Salary band is below the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$130,000).
Starts above 26% of 1352 comparable mid other roles in United States we track (median $105,000 across 185 companies).

Quick facts

What's the salary range?: K2 Space lists $100,000–$135,000 for this role.
How much experience is required?: 2–5 years of relevant experience for this Mission Payload Engineer (TS//SCI) role.
What seniority level is this role?: K2 Space targets mid-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Mission Payload Engineer (TS//SCI) role at K2 Space.

From the original posting

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 Role

As a Mission Payload Engineer within National Security Programs, you’ll serve as the primary technical interface between K2 Space, customers, and partners as we integrate advanced payload capabilities onto K2’s satellite bus platform. You’ll support the entire program lifecycle – from early proposal phases through spacecraft design, development, integration, test, and on-orbit operations.

In this role, you will work closely with Program Managers and key engineering disciplines to define and negotiate payload interfaces (mechanical, data and software, power, mission, etc.) and develop integration and test plans that ensure successful mission execution. You will also represent K2 Space in critical customer engagements, design reviews, and verification milestones.

The ideal candidate has strong multi-disciplinary engineering skills, hands-on experience, and excellent communication abilities to effectively collaborate with National Security customers and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Manage payload integration across the full satellite lifecycle. Support initial proposals, design, development, integration, testing, launch and on-orbit commissioning.
Serve as the primary customer interface for payload integration. Lead technical discussions, represent K2 Space in design reviews, and ensure customer requirements are understood and met.
Development, maintain, and negotiate payload interface control documentation. Define mechanical, electrical, software, power, and mission interfaces, ensuring clear technical alignment between payload and bus teams.
Create and execute payload interface verification and validation plans. Develop testing strategies to ensure compliance with mission and interface requirements, and oversee final sell-off with internal and external stakeholders.
Coordinate cross-functional integration efforts. Work closely with vehicle engineering, avionics, software, propulsion, thermal, and AI&T teams to ensure seamless payload integration.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
2+ years of experience working in the aerospace or space industry, working with spacecraft, launch vehicles, airborne systems, or payloads.
2+ years of technical project management and/or systems engineering experience.
Hands-on experience with developing, integrating and testing launch vehicles, spacecraft, or other aerospace systems.
Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, software, and power interfaces for satellite payloads.

Nice to Have

Master’s degree in an engineering discipline.
Experience working directly with National Security customers.
5+ years of experience working in the aerospace or space industry, working with spacecraft, launch vehicles, airborne systems, or payloads.
Hands-on spacecraft integration and test experience, including environmental testing, verification and troubleshooting.
Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and deliver results across multiple parallel priorities.
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work collaboratively in high-performing teams.
Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance preferred; willing to pursue and maintain a clearance if not already cleared.

Compensation and Benefits:

Base salary range for this role is $100,000 - $135,000 + 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!

Standard company text repeated across K2 Space's postings is omitted here.

Mission Payload Engineer (TS//SCI)

Similar positions