Strategic Communications Director

K2 Space•Washington, DC

12d•$140,000 - $230,000

About The Position

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. The Role Reporting to the Head of Strategy, our ideal candidate will leverage their deep strategic communications and public affairs knowledge of and experience in National Security, Congress, think tanks, and public engagement to develop and execute communications strategies to grow our portfolio of contracts in support of our long-term vision. You will spearhead our external communications and messaging strategy, plan K2’s public presence at major aerospace and national security conferences, cultivate relationships with defense and space reporters, and craft compelling narratives that highlight our cutting-edge technology and mission. Working closely with executive leadership, you will refine key messages and ensure executive narratives are strategically framed for high-level meetings and public engagements. You will also oversee all external communications channels (website content, press releases, and social media) to maintain a consistent brand voice. Collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders (government, industry, and media), you will align messaging across the organization to advance K2’s strategic goals.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public affairs, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or media relations.
Proven experience as a spokesperson or communications advisor, with a strong track record of managing media for executive leaders and high-profile organizations.
Deep understanding of the U.S. national security ecosystem, including DoD, the Intelligence Community, and Congress.
Experience engaging policymakers and defense industry stakeholders.
Extensive network of media and government contacts, with demonstrated ability to influence coverage in trade and national outlets.
Exceptional communication and editing skills; able to produce concise and persuasive content for executive audiences, press releases, social media, and websites.
Ability to craft and align strategic narratives around complex technical or policy subjects, shaping how key messages resonate with different audiences.
Proven ability to build and work within cross-functional teams in a fast-paced startup or high-stakes environment.
Must pass DoD-level background checks for entry into various government facilities.
Ability to work irregular business hours and travel when required.

Nice To Haves

Professional experience ideally within the defense, aerospace, or national security sectors.
Current or previously active TS/SCI security clearance
Department of Defense public affairs experience is a plus.
Prior military service.

Responsibilities

Lead Conference Engagement: Plan and execute K2 Space’s presence at major aerospace and national security conferences and events, including securing speaking opportunities, organizing panels, and coordinating with government and industry partners.
Strategic Media Relations: Develop and maintain strong relationships with national security and defense reporters and media outlets. Proactively pitch stories, arrange interviews, and respond to press inquiries to drive coverage of K2’s programs and successes.
External Communications Management: Partner across the business on externally-facing materials and channels. This includes managing website content, crafting press releases and media statements, and directing social media strategy to ensure consistent branding and messaging.
Executive Messaging: Partner with senior leadership to frame key messages for high-level engagements, such as executive briefings, press briefings, and Congressional hearings. Develop talking points, briefs, and presentations that align with K2’s strategic objectives.
Narrative Development: Shape the overall communications strategy and narrative around K2’s technology and mission, ensuring that complex technical concepts are translated into clear, compelling stories for diverse audiences.
Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate across departments (engineering, business development, strategy, HR, etc.) to integrate technical and operational insights into external messaging. Align communications efforts with business development and partner outreach to present a unified vision.
Crisis & Rapid Response: Lead crisis communications planning and execute rapid-response communications when necessary, maintaining K2’s credibility and consistent messaging during sensitive or unexpected situations.
Metrics & Analysis: Monitor media coverage, social engagement, and other communications metrics. Use data-driven insights to refine strategies and report on the impact of PR initiatives to senior management.