Joblaze summary

In the role of Spacecraft Program Manager at K2 Space, the individual will oversee the lifecycle of National Security space programs, from initial business development through to on-orbit operations. Key skills include a strong background in program management and systems engineering, particularly within aerospace, alongside an active Top Secret clearance. This position is ideal for experienced professionals who thrive in fast-paced environments and are adept at navigating complex challenges in the defense sector.

Joblaze insights

Listed about a month ago — first seen on Joblaze September 3, 2026. Last confirmed on K2 Space's careers page October 29, 2026.
Salary band is below the typical range for Management roles (median ~$170,000).
Starts above 20% of 570 comparable senior management roles in United States we track (median $153,000 across 142 companies).

Quick facts

What's the salary range?: K2 Space lists $125,000–$185,000 for this role.
How much experience is required?: At least 5 years of relevant experience for this Spacecraft Program Manager (TS//SCI) 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 Spacecraft Program Manager (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 Spacecraft Program Manager in National Security Programs at K2 Space, you will play a pivotal role in driving mission success and shaping our growing portfolio of National Security space programs. Serving as the primary interface with our emerging and existing customers, you will lead programs from early business development and proposal phases through design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations.

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 impactful National Security capabilities, we want you on our team.

Responsibilities

Program Leadership: Serve as the primary customer interface, ensuring alignment between mission requirements and K2 Space’s technology offerings.
Strategic Business Development: Shape new opportunities and architectures by collaborating with stakeholders, defining program requirements, and aligning efforts with long-term strategic objectives.
Program Execution: Oversee all aspects of programs from contract award through integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations, ensuring mission success and contract fulfillment.
Proposal & Contract Management: Lead proposal efforts, ensuring technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with long-term engineering objectives.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering teams to assess vehicle readiness, manage technical and contractual changes, and mitigate risks.
Customer Engagement & Advocacy: Lead customer reviews, deliver technical briefings, negotiate requirements, and maintain strong relationships with government stakeholders.
Operate effectively in a rapidly evolving startup where agility, autonomy, and proactive problem-solving are essential.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in an engineering or science discipline.
5+ years of experience in program management, systems engineering, or operations of government programs.
Deep understanding of launch vehicles, spacecraft, or other aerospace systems.
Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Nice to Have

Master’s degree or PhD in an engineering or science discipline.
10+ program management, project management, systems engineering, or operations.
Experience with Spacecraft mission design, development, integration, and/or test.
Experience with management or program leadership. 
Proven ability to innovate in process improvement and system architectures. 
Experience working in the US national security community as a service member, civil servant, or contractor
Experience with contracts and contract negotiations
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 $125,000 - $185,000 + 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.

Spacecraft Program Manager (TS//SCI)

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