Systems 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

We are seeking an early in career skilled and driven Systems Engineer II to support the development execution and delivery of a full lifecycle spacecraft mission. This includes support of early mission architecture and system design requirements derivation system detailed design manufacturing integration test verification and validation launch and on-orbit operations. The systems engineer will support technical development for all program efforts.

This role is high-impact and significantly cross-functional offering the opportunity to engage with and contribute across many engineering this role you will work closely with internal program teams to enable success of the spacecraft and mission. This role will report to the Senior Manager Spacecraft Systems within the R&D organization.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning design and development of system requirements for space missions
• Define mission goals validate against system performance and support cross-functional teams to achieve those goals
• Support requirements development verification and validation to ensure technical and programmatic success.
• Work directly with customers to guide mission development from early design through launch and validation
• Support interface definition and management developing and maintaining Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
• Help develop test plans guide execution and ensure test results are well-documented and actionable
• Support key system reviews SRR PDR CDR and contribute technical guidance to subsystem design (communications ADCS propulsion avionics structure etc.)
• Support mission operations coordination anomaly resolution and forward-thinking ops planning
• Proactively identify and manage risks across program phases
• Navigate and support space system regulatory processes (orbital debris assessments spectrum licensing etc.)

Preferred Qualifications:

• S./M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or related technical discipline
• Familiarity with systems engineering processes and concepts
• First-hand experience on a small to medium-sized technology development program
• Experience with spacecraft design communications systems mission design or spacecraft test preferred
• Experience with requirement management methodologies and tools (e.g. DOORS Stell Jama)
• Strong leadership instincts and skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Programming proficiency (Python preferred)
• Creative problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges and risks.
• Preference for a fast-paced dynamic environment.

Eligibility Requirements

• This is anIMMEDIATEhiring need.
• Ability to work in the Louisville CO office 2-3 days/week desired. Unless work requires otherwise.
• Applicants must be a US Citizen.
• Active clearance or eligibility for security clearance desired e.g. Secret/Top Secret/TS/SCI.
• 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.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $83304 - $104130. 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
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match to help you 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!