Joblaze summary

The Principal Satellite Platform Engineer at K2 Space is responsible for overseeing the development and integration of satellite bus systems, ensuring mission success through effective program management and cross-functional collaboration. This role requires expertise in aerospace systems, project management, and technical leadership, ideally suited for candidates with significant experience in the aerospace sector. The position thrives in a dynamic startup environment, where adaptability and proactive problem-solving are essential for meeting aggressive timelines and ambitious goals.

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 above the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$129,582).
Starts above 28% of 126 comparable principal other roles we track (median $181,913 across 35 companies).

Quick facts

What's the salary range?: K2 Space lists $175,000–$200,000 for this role.
How much experience is required?: At least 6 years of relevant experience for this Principal Satellite Platform Engineer role.
What seniority level is this role?: K2 Space targets principal-level candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Principal Satellite Platform Engineer 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

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.

In this role, you will collaborate with a highly skilled, cross-disciplinary team to develop innovative solutions for complex challenges, ensuring alignment with mission 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. 

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, requirements, 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 requirements and high reliability

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

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/or launch across multiple departments

Proven ability to innovate in process improvement and system architectures

Skilled in generating executive summaries to drive decision making through senior leadership discussions

Familiarity with contracts and mission requirements evaluations

Demonstrated track record of project ownership, responsibility for execution, and successful outcomes

Ability to travel up to 25% of the time

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range for this role is $175,000 - $200,000 + 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.

Principal Satellite Platform Engineer

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