Joblaze summary

In this role, the Senior Mechanisms Engineer at K2 Space is responsible for overseeing the design and development of mechanisms critical to satellite operations, from initial concept through to on-orbit performance. The position requires expertise in mechanical and electromechanical design, with proficiency in CAD and FEA software, and a strong background in aerospace applications. Ideal candidates will have at least five years of relevant experience and a proactive approach to problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. K2 Space is focused on scaling its satellite production, making this a pivotal role in a high-growth company.

Joblaze insights

Listed about 2 months ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on K2 Space's careers page November 2, 2026.
Salary band is in line with the typical range for comparable tech roles (median ~$129,391).
Starts above 45% of 1480 comparable senior other roles we track (median $140,292 across 200 companies).

Quick facts

What's the salary range?: K2 Space lists $140,000–$175,000 for this role.
How much experience is required?: At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Senior Mechanisms Engineer role.
What seniority level is this role?: K2 Space targets senior candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Full-time for this Senior Mechanisms 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 own the success of mechanisms that will be key to our satellite operation and performance. In your first 6 months, you will define mechanism requirements, trade architectures and build initial prototypes, perform preliminary and detailed analysis, define development test campaigns, trade and select any purchased components, and produce development hardware. In your first year you will validate your designs through prototype iterations in rigorous test campaigns, build, and qualify flight hardware. In your first two years you will fly your hardware in space while supporting operations, production, and integration teams as we scale.

Responsibilities

Take hardware and mechanisms from conceptual design through qualification to on-orbit operations in order to support internal and external customer needs
Lead design reviews from kickoff through qualification and beyond
Drive hardware development, including hands-on development testing, analysis correlation, and follow-on hardware iterations
Perform hardware trades that steer both sub-system and top-level product direction
Collaborate with a cross-functional team to establish product requirements, company processes, and best practices for hardware design and manufacturing
Continually own and refine system deliverables and associated schedules throughout development and production

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline
Minimum 5+ years of experience with mechanical and/or electromechanical design and analysis
Experience with CAD or FEA software packages

Nice to Have

Experience designing, building, and testing moving mechanical assemblies for aerospace applications (satellite mechanical systems, payloads, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and/or aircraft structures and mechanisms)
Experience with NASA-STD-5017, SMC-S-016, and GSFC-STD-7000 for the design and qualification of in-space Moving Mechanism Assemblies
Experience with kinematic synthesis, electromechanical actuation, mechatronics and instrumentation
Experience with bearing analysis, preload techniques, and preload measurement
Experience with the practical application of GD&T
Demonstrated ability to own moving mechanism assemblies across the full product lifecycle in a high velocity environment
Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations
Independent and self-motivated mindset, with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills across disciplines

Compensation and Benefits:

Base salary range for this role is $140,000 - $175,000 + equity in the company
Salary and level 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.

Senior Mechanisms Engineer

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