Security Manager, FSO/CPSO (TS/SCI)

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 ($180M 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. 

The Role 

K2 Space is seeking a Security Manager to lead our comprehensive security program, ensuring compliance with DoD and Intelligence Community security requirements. You will oversee our Facility Security Clearances (FCLs), Personnel Security Clearances (PCLs), Communications Security (COMSEC) program, and the security of our Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) and classified production facility. 

This is a high-impact role for a self-motivated individual who can collaborate with government security stakeholders, safeguard classified information across multiple sensitivity levels, and drive a culture of security awareness within K2 Space.   

As the first dedicated security team member, you will have the unique opportunity to establish the security culture, procedures, and best practices from the ground up. 

As we scale operations you will ensure our security infrastructure grows to meet evolving classified program requirements. You will work closely with the Head of Facilities, IT Security & Compliance Lead, and executive leadership to develop and expand our secure facilities and networks. 

Responsibilities 

• Serve as Facility Security Officer (FSO), managing Facility (FCL) and Personnel Clearances (PCLs), including annual administrative, training, and compliance requirements.  

• Oversee and manage K2 Space’s COMSEC program to protect classified communications.  

• Lead physical security operations for K2’s office, R&D, manufacturing, and classified meeting spaces, ensuring compliance with national security standards.  

• Act as the primary security liaison with government agencies, customers, and partners to define classification levels, storage, and transmission requirements for classified spacecraft payloads and capabilities.  

• Drive the expansion, accreditation, and operation of SCIFs and classified production facilities, working with internal teams and government stakeholders to meet current and future mission needs.  

• Collaborate with government security officials, IT, and Information Assurance teams to establish and maintain an on-site classified network capability  

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.  

• Active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance  

• 5+ years of experience as a Facility Security Officer (FSO), managing DoD and Intelligence Community security programs.  

• Strong understanding of NISPOM, ICD 705, and DoD security protocols.  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to brief executives, employees, and government stakeholders on security requirements. 

Nice to Have 

• Experience establishing a security program from the ground up in a commercial or government-contractor environment.  

• Previous roles as CPSO (Contractor Program Security Officer) and/or CSSO (Contractor Special Security Officer).  

• Hands-on experience in planning, building, accrediting, and maintaining SCIFs/SAPFs. 

Compensation and Benefits: 

• Base salary range for this role is $120,000 - $160,000 + equity in the company 

• Salary 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, 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.