Joblaze summary

The Software Engineering Intern at K2 Space will engage in hands-on software development for spacecraft systems, taking ownership of a project that supports on-orbit operations. Key skills include proficiency in Rust, C/C++, or Go, along with experience in real-time systems and software architecture. This role is ideal for students pursuing a degree in computer science or engineering, particularly those with prior technical experience. K2 Space offers a dynamic environment focused on innovative satellite technology, making it a fitting opportunity for those eager to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects.

Joblaze insights

Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on K2 Space's careers page October 31, 2026.
C++ appears in 7.6% of 631 comparable intern other roles in United States; Rust appears in 2.2% of 631 comparable intern other roles in United States.

Quick facts

Is the Software Engineering Intern – Summer 2027 role remote?: No — this is an on-site role in Los Angeles, CA.
What's the salary range?: K2 Space lists $30–$40 for this role.
How much experience is required?: At least 0 years of relevant experience for this Software Engineering Intern – Summer 2027 role.
Where is the role based?: K2 Space is hiring for this position in Los Angeles, CA.
What's the tech stack?: Joblaze extracted these technologies from the posting: C, C++, Go, Linux, Rust.
What seniority level is this role?: K2 Space targets intern candidates for this position.
Is this full-time or contract?: Internship for this Software Engineering Intern – Summer 2027 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

We’re looking for a stellar intern to join our team for a 3 month internship. Working closely with K2 engineers in a highly collaborative environment, you will be responsible for owning a software engineering project end-to-end and supporting actual on-orbit operations of our spacecraft. You will interact with advanced technologies like cyber-physical system simulators, satellite sensors and actuators, build systems, GNC algorithms, and more.

Responsibilities

Create software architecture for real-time, fault-tolerant control of a 20kW+ spacecraft

Develop software applications for control of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, guidance/attitude control, thermal, power, and communications systems

Design and implement state machines for robust operation of the spacecraft

Create and utilize robust tools to allow for rapid deployment of quality code

Perform data analysis and anomaly investigation to identify and resolve software bugs

Support integration and testing of the spacecraft subsystems

Build and maintain infrastructure to increase reliability when developing and testing software

Qualifications

Must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or other relevant engineering discipline

6+ months of experience using technical engineering skills outside of the university classroom setting (eg: laboratory, research, extracurricular project teams, volunteering, personal projects or prior internship/work experience)

Development experience in Rust, C/C++, or Go

Additional Requirements

Available for a minimum 12 week internship in person at our HQ in Torrance

Nice to Have

Ability to work well in an integrated collaborative team environment, including frequent interactions with technicians, engineers, and managers

Experience with spacecraft flight software development

Experience with Linux systems programming and driver development

Experience with continuous integration and continuous delivery systems

Experience building or working with hard real-time embedded systems (bare-metal or RTOS)

Basic knowledge of electronics, computer architecture, and control systems

Experience defining and creating test systems for both hardware-in-the-loop and hardware-out-of-the-loop

Compensation

Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $30 - $40 per hour

Hourly rate will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level

Housing and travel stipend may also be available

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.

Software Engineering Intern – Summer 2027

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