Senior Manager, Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC)
Senior Manager, Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC)
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$ 155903 - 189879
1 Vacancy
Job Description
About Capella Space
Capella Space is a pioneer in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. We empower government commercial and research organizations around the world with high-resolution timely Earth insights that drive better decisions - across defense and intelligence disaster response infrastructure monitoring environmental protection energy and more.
As a U.S.-based company Capella designs builds and operates an advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites in orbit today. Our satellites are backed by a fully automated tasking collection and delivery platform delivering fast reliable insights when and where our customers need them most. As a subsidiary of IonQ a global leader in quantum computing Capella is charting the future of Earth observation. Together were on a mission to bring quantum computing to space - unlocking ultra-secure encrypted uplink and downlink capabilities reducing latency and enabling powerful on-orbit analytics. This visionary integration of advanced remote sensing and quantum technology will support customers with the highest level of data fidelity security and speed.
Capella was named one ofFast Companys 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023and is a trusted partner of the U.S. Space Force U.S. Air Force U.S. Navy NASA the National Reconnaissance Office and allied government agencies worldwide. Built In recognized IonQ on three of its 2025 Best Places to Worklists.
What Makes Capella Unique
At Capella we dont just imagine whats possible - we build it. Were a mission-driven team fueled by curiosity grit and a shared commitment to redefining the limits of space innovation. Our environment is fast paced rooted in humble collaboration. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and our industry. If youre ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossiblewere the place for you. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere and we thrive on diverse perspectives that help us move faster think deeper and push the boundaries of innovation. Whether youre new to the space industry or a seasoned expert youll find a team that values creativity integrity and bold thinking. Join us as we build the future of SARand take quantum to space.
About the Role & Team
We are looking for an experienced technical Manager for our Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) this role you will lead a small team of highly specialized engineers who collectively are responsible for all aspects related to orbit control orbit determination orbit propagation state estimation and filtering formation flying collision avoidance lifetime analysis and de-orbit of a constellation of satellites.
As the Manager of Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) you will act as the technical leader in this domain at Capella. You will be the mentor and people manager while providing technical expertise and contributions to various projects within the company. You will guide the team through technical challenges help develop the teams skills and enable growth taking on new challenges (such as formation flying & autonomous control) as the company evolves and our opportunities diversify. You will lead the development of a technology roadmap related to this domain in collaboration with senior company leaders and in-line with company strategic objectives and projects.
As a leader in your field you will represent the companys expertise related to GNC to customers and partners including in public settings (such as conferences) as appropriate and provide technical input into proposals.
Role Responsibilities
Lead our dynamic Capella GNC team
Manage and mentor engineers on the team
Provide technical guidance related to GNC within the team projects
Perform resource allocation across company programs
Define and provide accountability for short-term (quarterly) and long-term (annual) team goals that support company objectives
Collaborate with and support adjacent teams with operationalizing GNC & Flight Dynamics systems & CONOPS
Support design and implementation of orbit determination orbit propagation and automated thrust maneuvering in an operational system
Support design and implementation of state estimators and control algorithms for the localization and pointing of radar-imaging spacecraft
Define & implement the technology roadmap related to GNC in collaboration with senior leaders and in-line with the company strategic objectives
Qualifications
Background in the field of GNC/Dynamics for flight programs
Ability to lead a multi-functional team through complex projects
Comfort working in a startup-type environment with high degree of uncertainty
Excellent communication skills
Willingness to travel to Capella SF office and other locations as necessary up to 25%
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder) or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. Learn more about ITARhere.
Nice-to-Haves
Hands-on experience in at least one of the following areas: formation flying repeat orbit acquisition precision orbit maneuvering.
Experience managing and delivering Python or C/C projects to a production environment
Practical or theoretical background in orbital mechanics space system controls and the space environment
Compensation
The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $155903 - $189879. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education qualification knowledge skills ability and experience of the final candidate(s) specific office location and calibrated against relevant market data and internal team equity. Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.
Benefits/Perks
In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We provide extensive medical coverage including strong vision and dental plans flexible spending accounts and additional supplemental health options.
- 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Generous Parental Leave
- Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- Commuter & Parking Benefits
- Mental Health Resources
- Monthly Phone Stipend
- Furry friends Weve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with pet insurance options
Equal Opportunity Statement
Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and upholding equitable hiring practices.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability protected veteran status or any other characteristic under federal state or local law including those with a criminal history in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities women Veterans and those with disabilities to apply and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process please notify
To learn more about us explore our site: and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!
Required Experience:
Senior Manager
Employment Type
Full Time
