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Quality Inspector
K2 SpaceLos Angeles, CA4+ years
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
You will play a critical role in establishing and implementing quality standards at K2 Space from the ground up, overseeing the full quality control process from initial setup through full-scale production of the Mega-class satellite. This role will focus on developing and implementing quality control procedures for structural, electrical, and electro-mechanical components. Collaborating with Engineering, Supply Chain and Production teams, you will fully optimize inspection and quality control processes, drive corrective/preventive action, support AS9100 certification efforts, and support flight missions.
Responsibilities
- Perform rigorous First Article Inspections (FAIRs) of CNC machined and waterjet parts
- Follow Inspection Procedures and Work Instructions to inspect large metallic parts using a variety of precision measuring tools, including height and bore gauges, pin gauges, calipers, CMMs, etc.
- Utilize specialized equipment to perform inspections of power system hardware such as solar modules and battery cells
- Perform visual inspections of PCBAs, harnesses, and electro-mechanical assemblies
- Document and maintain accurate documentation within the ERP and MES systems
- Assist with final walkdown inspections of the fully integrated Mega-class satellite
- Support inventory management efforts of incoming hardware and components
Qualifications
- 4+ years of quality inspection experience in an engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, or quality-related field
- Experience reading engineering drawings, including GD&T
- Proficiency in using precision measuring equipment and techniques
- Familiarity with ERP/MES systems for tracking inventory and inspection results
- Knowledge of ESD handling procedures and ITAR compliance requirements
- Experience with AS9100 or similar quality management systems
- Certification in aerospace standards (IPC-610, IPC-620, J-STD-001, NASA-STD-8739.3, NASA-STD-8739.4)
Nice to Have
- Familiarity with CAD and PLM software (NX, Teamcenter or similar CAD and PLM tools)
- Proficient in reviewing drawings in accordance with ASME Y14.5
- Forklift certified or able to get a forklift certification
- Experience working in a cleanroom environment
- Strong communication skills with ability to describe hardware and systems problems
Additional Requirements
- Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed
- Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and maneuver in tight spaces
- Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 25 lbs. unassisted
Compensation and Benefits:
- Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $30 - $45 + 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.
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