Avionics HITL & Test Technician

K2 Space is building large, high-powered spacecraft for the next generation of space development. Backed by Lightspeed Venture Partners, Altimeter Capital, and many others ($200M raised to date), we intend to mass produce the highest-powered satellite platforms ever built for missions across LEO to Deep Space.

The rise of launch vehicles like Falcon 9 and Starship enables the move from an era of mass constraint to one of mass abundance. We believe this new era requires spacecraft with a fundamentally different design in order to fully utilize the massive rockets coming to market.

We’re a team that believes the future lies in building large, high-powered satellites that can handle multiple orbits. This is a necessity if we ever want 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 B space startup, we’d love for you to apply.

You will contribute to the build and development of avionics and software test assets for major satellite subsystems and vehicle simulation. This role will be the owner of avionics hardware installation, wire harnessing, test rack fabrication, and HITL (Hardware-In-The-Loop) test bed build and maintenance. As an essential part of the Research & Development technician team, you will demonstrate diverse proficiencies across avionics products, production and industry build fundamentals, and a high level of attention to detail to ensure quality and reliability of electrical components and systems.

• Support full build and maintenance of HITL (Hardware-In-The-Loop) test assets, including installation of avionics hardware, manufacturing and routing of wire harnesses, and fabrication of load simulators
• Assemble production test racks for HITL, acceptance testing, and qualification of flight hardware
• Follow engineering procedures to perform electrical checkouts such as continuity, discontinuity, and multimeter measurements on components and vehicle systems
• Assist design engineering throughout the hardware development and pre-production stages by supporting specification development, component assembly and process validation testing
• Work autonomously and coordinate cross-functionally with various engineering and technician team to meet high pace schedule and quality requirements
• Successfully use an array of hand, power, and pneumatic mechanical tools to build fixtures, interfacing panels, and tooling assemblies

• 5+ years of experience assembling, integrating, and testing electronic hardware in the aerospace industry
• 1+ years of SMT/through-hole soldering, using electronics equipment, and assembling test racks
• Demonstrated skill and proficiency in soldering and crimping as well as assembling cable harnesses and connectors

• IPC Certified for PCB and cable harness rework (IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620)
• Hand soldering ability that meets IPC J-STD-001
• Experience designing, building, and testing electrical assemblies and test fixtures
• Experience performing crimping, wire stripping, continuity testing, connector pin outs, and routing and tie wrapping
• Ability to drill and tap holes, and use common shop equipment such as drill press, grinders, and band saws
• Ability to create, read, review, and redline electrical and test rack schematics
• Strong communication skills with ability to communicate hardware and systems problems
• Experience developing or writing company specifications and qualifying build methods for production around wire harness, test rack fabrication, and integration

• 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

• Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $28 - $40 + 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 unlimited paid time off,…