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CNC Machinist

Los Angeles, CA

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 

You will be responsible for performing precision machining operations in our fast paced Production environment. This role will support the design development and production of the Mega Class satellite. You will work closely with CNC Programmers, Engineers, and Production Leadership. You will have experience in both CNC and conventional machining.  

Responsibilities 

  • Perform precision set-ups of CNC mills and lathes to produce high-precision parts 
  • Manage cutting tools load, measure, and verify all required tooling needed by the CNC program 
  • Perform deburring operations and basic finishing to prepare parts for production use 
  • Perform inspections on finished parts to ensure they meet drawing dimensional specifications and requirements utilizing inspection tools such as height gauges, micrometers, calipers 
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance on CNC machines  
  • Keep the Machine shop organized and running smoothly through 5S practices  
  • Provide feedback for continuous improvement to processes and procedures 
  • Complete all required documentation in the MES system to ensure traceability  
  • Safely handle equipment including forklifts, pallet jacks, and cranes 

Qualifications 

  • 2+ years of CNC programming and machining experience (using NX/TC or MasterCam) 
  • Extensive experience operating multi-axis CNC equipment (2-axis, 3-axis, 5-axis, mill/turn)  
  • Proficient in GD&T tolerances and technical drawing interpretation 
  • Experience working in a high-pace development environment with ability to adapt to short production schedules 
  • Ability to take on a high level of responsibility overseeing projects from start to finish  
  • Ability to manually edit G-code paths and settings to optimize programs 

Additional Requirements 

  • Must be able to perform repetitive physical 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 stand for extended periods of time 
  • Must be able to lift and carry parts or equipment up to 50 lbs. unassisted 
  • Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed 

Nice to Have 

  • Experience in a startup production development environment  
  • Experience operating conventional shop equipment (Lathe, Knee Mill) 

Compensation and Benefits: 

  • Hourly pay range for this non-exempt role is $28 – $38 + 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, 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.

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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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To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.

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