A New Paradigm For Space Operations.
Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.
This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.
What You’ll Do:
We are seeking a highly organized and driven Machining Operations Coordinator to support both internal manufacturing operations and external machining business opportunities. This role will be responsible for coordinating machine shop workflow, managing production scheduling, supporting outside customer machining work, preparing quotes and bids, and coordinating third-party vendors and services. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and capable of balancing customer needs, production priorities, and operational deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and pursue external machining opportunities to support machine shop utilization and business growth
- Prepare machining quotes, estimates, and written bid submissions for prospective and existing customers
- Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout quoting, scheduling, production, and delivery activities
- Coordinate internal machining schedules to ensure machines are efficiently utilized and production deadlines are met
- Balance external customer work with internal Space Kinetic manufacturing priorities and schedules
- Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, operations, and supply chain teams to prioritize jobs and resolve scheduling conflicts
- Coordinate with third-party suppliers and service providers including heat treat, grinding, coatings, raw material vendors, and specialty processing vendors
- Coordinate outside technician or contract machining support as needed
- Track outsourced parts, supplier schedules, and critical-path items to ensure timely delivery
- Assist with production tracking, workflow management, and schedule reporting
- Support ERP/MRP updates, job tracking, and manufacturing documentation management
- Participate in production and operations meetings and provide status updates on active work and supplier coordination
- Help identify bottlenecks, production risks, or delays and escalate issues proactively
Basic Qualifications
- High school Diploma or equivalent
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, machining coordination, production scheduling, estimating, or related field
- Strong understanding of machining and manufacturing environments
- Experience coordinating with machine shops, vendors, suppliers, or manufacturing service providers
- Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills
- Ability to manage shifting priorities and multiple active jobs simultaneously
- Comfortable reading basic engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation
- Experience preparing quotes, estimates, or customer proposals preferred
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and production tracking systems
- Ability to work independently in a fast-paced startup environment
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Experience with 5-axis machining and/or mill-turn equipment
- Prototype or short-run machining experience
- G-code editing and troubleshooting
- Mastercam or CAM exposure a plus
- Experience with a variety of materials (aluminum, stainless, titanium, etc.)
- Strong understanding of tooling, feeds/speeds, and workholding
- Ability to work independently in a fast-moving shop environment
Physical & Work Environment
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing industries
- Familiarity with CNC machining processes and manufacturing terminology
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems
- Experience supporting rapid prototype or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing environments
- Prior experience in customer-facing manufacturing or operations coordination roles
- Overtime or weekend work may be required based on production needs
- On-site role in El Segundo manufacturing facility
Where You’ll Be:
- The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.
What We Offer:
- Competitive Base Salary + Equity-Based Compensation
- Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure
- Health and Wellness Stipend
- Commuter Benefits
ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.
The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.
Skills Required
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, machining coordination, production scheduling, estimating, or related field
- Strong understanding of machining and manufacturing environments
- Experience coordinating with machine shops, vendors, suppliers, or manufacturing service providers
- Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and production tracking systems
What We Do
Space Kinetic is focused on our nation’s most urgent national security priorities. Our goal is to rethink space operations down to first principles to deliver game-changing capabilities for missile defense and space superiority.
