SMT Technician (Solar)

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

You will operate and maintain Surface Mount Technology (SMT) equipment working closely with Engineers to support development and production of the K2 Mega-class satellite. Our ideal candidate is a self-starter and has a strong attention to detail to ensure quality and reliability of electronic components.

Responsibilities

• Operate SMT assembly equipment including but not limited to: SMT Placement machines, reflow ovens, solder printers, conformal coating machines, epoxy dispensers, and lamination equipment
• Program, load, operate, and troubleshoot automated equipment
• Operate light tools such as crimpers, presses, soldering irons, and custom tooling
• Follow work instructions / assembly procedures and document work performed through MES system
• Inspect assemblies for defects and document non-conformances
• Perform functional testing of components and assemblies
• Provide consistent process improvement feedback to engineering and production leadership

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment
• Ability to read and follow work instructions
• Demonstrate high level of ownership and problem-solving abilities
• Able to set up and use a torque wrench and other hand tools
• Experience performing crimping, wire stripping, continuity testing
• Ability to adapt to changing work assignments under tight deadlines

Nice to Have

• Hand soldering ability and PCB rework experience
• Ability to read, review, and redline electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
• Experience performing crimping, wire stripping, continuity testing
• Experience using test and measuring tools (digital multimeter, oscilloscopes, calipers)
• Experience with various potting and epoxies
• Strong communication skills with ability to communicate hardware and systems problems

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to perform repetitive tasks such as bending or twisting, grasping, standing, lifting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, carrying, and use hands to operate tools or machine controls
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
• Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs. Unassisted
• Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed

Compensation and Benefits:

• Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $24 – $35 + equity in the company
• Compensation 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!

If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

Export Compliance

As defined in the ITAR, “U.S. Persons” include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (i.e., Green Card holders), and certain protected individuals (e.g., refugees/asylees, American Samoans). Please consult with a knowledgeable advisor if you are unsure whether you are a “U.S. Person.”

The person hired for this role will have access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations, including the export control regulations outlined in the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR). The person hired for this role must therefore either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.

Equal Opportunity

K2 Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with K2 Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.