RF Payload Program Manager (TS//SCI) Seen this week

K2 Space · Los Angeles, CA · RF & Comms · first seen 2026-07-16

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.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary customer interface, ensuring alignment between mission requirements and K2 Space's technology offerings.
Shape new opportunities and architectures by collaborating with stakeholders, defining program requirements, and aligning efforts with long-term strategic objectives.
Oversee all aspects of programs from contract award through integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations, ensuring mission success and contract fulfillment.
Lead proposal efforts, ensuring technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with long-term engineering objectives.
Work closely with engineering teams to assess vehicle readiness, manage technical and contractual changes, and mitigate risks.
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.

Required 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+ years 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

Base salary range: $125,000 - $185,000 plus equity.
Salary based on knowledge, skills, education, and experience level.
Comprehensive benefits including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, and paid parental leave.

Export Compliance

This role requires access to information and items controlled by U.S. export control regulations (ITAR). The person hired must be a U.S. Person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee, or American Samoan) or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.