Senior Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS) & Propulsion Engineer

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

As an Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS) and Propulsion Engineer you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of the ADCS and propulsion subsystems for a constellation of radar imaging spacecraft. You will serve as a cognizant engineer for Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) hardware and software. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers to ensure existing spacecraft meet their mission objectives and to design and develop next-generation systems. Your work will have a direct impact on spacecraft performance and the overall technical success of Capella.

This role sits in the Space Systems organization alongside systems thermal electrical/harnessing mechanical/deployables radar/communications and flight software engineers.

Role Responsibilities:

• SupportADCSand Propulsion systems for a constellation of spacecraft through the entire lifecycle: design build testing on-orbit operations and decommissioning.
• GenerateADCSand Propulsion systems performance requirements to satisfy high-level mission objectives.
• Perform research and development for new spacecraft working from first principles to develop and execute trade studies conduct system sizing and design and present at design reviews.
• Design and implement state estimators and control algorithms for the localization and pointing of radar-imaging spacecraft; be a technical authority on control theory.
• Develop software to automate workflows support design studies and enhance spacecraft operational efficiency.
• Develop software simulations of spacecraft dynamics and system behavior.
• Be a subject matter expert forADCSand Propulsion systems.
• Be a technical contact forADCSand Propulsion vendors and keep informed of the industry landscape.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Qualifications:

• 5 years of experience withGNC/ADCSsystems on spacecraft robotics autonomous vehicles or UAVs/drones.
• Direct experience withGNC/ADCShardware: star trackers sun sensors reaction wheels torque rods control moment gyroscopes accelerometers gyroscopes magnetometersGPS etc.
• Solid understanding of state estimation/filtering and application to attitude determination and control.
• Solid understanding of rigid body and flexible dynamics.
• Demonstrated leadership of hardware development projects.
• Familiarity with orbital dynamics and the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) space environment.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following disciplines: electrical engineering chemical or electric propulsion signal processing embedded software development.
• Comfortable dealing with unknowns quantifying risk navigating uncertainty and handling the pressure of a real-time operating environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and cross-functionally.
• Enjoyment of learning and teaching new skills.
• Proficiency in Python preferred.

Required Qualifications

• 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 ITAR here.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $128656- $160820. 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.
• Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Parental Leave program
• 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!