What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bus Vehicle Lead position at K2 Space?
The Role
As a Vehicle Lead in Platform (Bus) Engineering at K2 Space, 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. As a vehicle lead for specific missions, 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.
- Customer Engagement: Engage with customers to ensure technical compliance and successful mission integration.
- Systems Development: Establish and improve engineering processes, reviews, and analysis frameworks to support K2 growth.
- 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
- 4 years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing
- 2 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
- 6 years of experience in technical aerospace or manufacturing
- 4 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 $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
Salary : $125,000 - $185,000