Solar Production Technician

About the role

K2 is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, unlocking performance levels previously out of reach across every orbit. Backed by over $1 billion in total funding from leading investors including Altimeter Capital, ICONIQ, Kleiner Perkins, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Redpoint Ventures, and T. Rowe Price - and with over $1 billion 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 in 2027 and plans to scale to 100 satellites a year, we're Building Bigger - helping develop the solar system and build toward 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 high-growth Series D-funded company, we'd love for you to apply.

The Role

You will play a critical role in the hands-on fabrication, assembly, and testing of the Mega-Class satellite solar array hardware. This role spans solar blanket build, module welding, mechanical assembly, and production testing, while also providing occasional support to the module SMT line.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and build solar array blankets, including module welding, bonding, and integration of electrical hardware
• Perform mechanical assembly of solar array support hardware, fixtures, and sub-assemblies
• Operate light fabrication equipment and tools including welders, presses, cutters, crimpers, torque tools, drills, rivet guns, and custom tooling
• Followed detailed work instructions and manufacturing procedures, performing all work in the MES system (scanning, material consumption, and built traceability)
• Provide hands-on support to the module SMT line as needed, operating SMT equipment and assisting with module testing
• 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

• Experience in a fast-paced production development environment
• Experience with in-space electro-mechanical assemblies
• Experience with aircraft airframe

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 lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs. unassisted
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $26-$43 + 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!

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.