RF Payload Program Manager (TS//SCI)

Job Application for RF Payload Program Manager (TS//SCI) at K2 Space Back to jobs RF Payload Program Manager (TS//SCI) Los Angeles, CA Apply K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by $450M from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, Redpoint Ventures, T. Rowe Price, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Alpine Space Ventures, and others – with an additional $500M 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 rise of heavy-lift launch vehicles is shifting the industry from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance, and we believe this new era demands a fundamentally different class of spacecraft. Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today’s and tomorrow’s massive rockets, K2 satellites deliver unmatched capability at constellation scale and across multiple orbits. With multiple launches planned through 2026 and 2027, we're Building Bigger to develop the solar system and become a Kardashev Type II (K2) civilization. If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and you're excited about contributing to the success of a groundbreaking Series C space startup, we’d love for you to apply. The Role As an RF Payload 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! 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