Precision Cleaning Engineer

Title:

Precision Cleaning Engineer

Belong. Connect. Grow. with K !

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We at K  share one goal: to improve the world responsibly as a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers.

K  is seeking a Contamination Control Engineer to analyze, develop, and evaluate contamination control solutions supporting spaceflight hardware and high-reliability systems. This role ensures compliance with contamination and material performance requirements through engineering analysis, system-level planning, and verification activities including but not limited to:

* Physical hands-on cleaning, aqueous degreasing and solvent flushing on spacecraft materials including metals, composites and polymers with varying surface finishes

* Conducting out gassing and material analysis

* Verifying cleanliness through particulate counts, non-volative residue and black light (UV) inspection

* Providing support and guidance to precision cleaning, inspection, and verification processes to meet mission goals

* Reviewing contamination control plans

* Outlining cleanliness standards and verifying results

The engineer will evaluate hardware specifications and contamination requirements to determine appropriate cleaning, processing, and verification methods. Responsibilities include planning and assessing testing activities such as out gassing analysis, particulate and molecular verification, and material compatibility. The role requires interpreting results, assessing hardware acceptability, and making engineering recommendations based on applicable standards.

This position performs contamination-related risk assessments and develops mitigation strategies across the hardware lifecycle. The engineer applies industry standards such as ASTM, ISO, and IEST to ensure compliance and consistent performance, and evaluates new materials and processes to improve outcomes. The role provides technical oversight of precision cleaning and verification processes, ensuring alignment with engineering requirements. The engineer analyzes data, solves complex problems, and exercises independent judgment in applying engineering principles and standards.

The contamination engineer will work independently with minimal guidance while collaborating across engineering, quality, and program teams. Strong communication skills are required to present technical findings and support decision-making. The role requires demonstrated ability to assess risk, solve complex problems, and exercise independent judgment and discretion. Strong collaboration skills are essential, along with willingness to support occasional extended hours or travel.

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, materials science, or a related field, along with 6-7 years of relevant experience. Have at least 5 years of experience in control, including experience with space flight hardware. Required experience includes working in cleanroom environments supporting high-reliability hardware, familiarity with precision cleaning and contamination verification methods, and the ability to analyze data, interpret standards, and develop engineering recommendations.

Preferred qualifications include an advanced degree, experience supporting spaceflight hardware, familiarity with vacuum and out gassing standards, and knowledge of ISO 14644 or IEST cleanliness standards.

Special

Working Conditions:

APL Core Hours 9am-3pm

Ability to lift 40lbs

Basic Compensation:

$ - $ annually

The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

K  Benefits

K  offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

to learn more: K  Benefits

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Belong, Connect and Grow at K

At K , we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

K  is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.