Electrical Design 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.

Why Join Us

• Youll ship real hardware to spaceand own it end to end
• Youll work on small highly-skilled teams with immediate impact
• Youll grow in a culture that values mentorship autonomy and technical excellence
• Youll help shape the future of Earth observation with modern engineering

About the Role

As an Electrical Hardware Design Engineer youll take ownership of full-cycle PCBA designsfrom early concept to flight readiness. You will work cross-functionally with RF mechanical software and operations teams to bring high-reliability space-ready electronics to life. You will present across disciplines to help facilitate ideas product readiness and conduct reviews.

Role Responsibilities

• Drivethe full electrical design lifecyclefor spaceflight hardware: schematic capture layout bring-up test and manufacturing handoff
• Develop robust analog/digital designsfor mission-critical systems under environmental and performance constraints
• Participate and host collaborative cross disciplinary design reviewssharing feedback and shaping solutions with a team of experienced engineers
• Provide critical input to schedule planning and hardware requirements
• Lead board-level bring-up and debugging integrating firmware/software with embedded systems
• Define test plans and verification strategiesthat meet flight readiness requirements
• Play a key role in scaling up our manufacturing facilitybringing hardware from prototype to low-volume production
• Collaborate across teamsmechanical RF software and systemsto ensure seamless integration
• Mentor early-career engineerscontributing to internal process improvements and elevating the overall quality of the team
• Engage with external vendors and CMs ensuring delivery quality resolving DFM/DFT issues and ensuring on-time delivery
• Contribute to failure analysis and root-cause investigationsacross flight or test anomalies

What Success Looks Like

• You consistently deliver flight-quality hardware on schedule with minimal oversight
• You proactively identify and articulate system-level risks and drive mitigations early
• Youcommunicate across hardware/software and cross-functional gaps with confidence and clarity
• You make thoughtful trade-offs in constrained environments and justify them with data
• You show curiosity about advanced areas like architecture optimization or radiation mitigationeven if theyre outside your scope for now

Qualifications

• 4 years of experience designing and debugging
• Proficiency in Altium Designer (or similar ECAD tools)
• Hands-on experience with lab instruments (oscilloscopes logic analyzers power analyzers etc.)
• Solid understanding of digital buses (I2C SPI UARTRS422 CAN USB PCIe Ethernet etc.)
• Familiarity with board bring-up test planning and design verification workflows
• Experience interacting with contract manufacturers supporting DFM reviews and resolving production issues
• Strong documentation habits and organizational skills
• 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 Have

• Experience designing for harsh environments (thermal vacuum vibration etc.)
• Familiarity with high-speed design or impedance-controlled layouts
• Basic scripting or automation in Python or C for hardware test workflows
• Exposure to radiation effects and mitigation in electronic design
• Familiarity with EMI/EMC design practices and validation
• Familiarity with satellite electrical systems engineering (propulsion (EPS) Electrical Power System (GNSS) Global Navigation Satellite System (ADCS) Attitude Determination and Control System space robotics etc)

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role is $127545 - $159432. 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
• Parental Leave Program
• 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!