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, we’re 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 of Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023 and 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 Work lists.
What Makes Capella Unique?
At Capella, we don’t just imagine what’s possible - we build it. We’re 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 you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossible—we’re 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 you’re new to the space industry or a seasoned expert, you’ll find a team that values creativity, integrity, and bold thinking. Join us as we build the future of SAR—and take quantum to space.
The role
We are seeking a talented and experienced GNC Engineer to support the development of advanced capabilities for our next-generation spacecraft. In this role, you will contribute to efforts in orbit determination, orbit prediction, orbit control, collision avoidance, formation flying and system simulation and modeling. You thrive on solving complex technical challenges and take pride in building robust, high-performance systems that operate reliably on the ground and in space.
As a GNC engineer you will contribute to existing efforts within depth review of system design and software. You will take ownership of challenging new projects as Capella evolves, paving new ground on what is possible with our satellite platform. You will work closely with immediate team members and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver against an ambitious technology roadmap.
What you’ll do
- Build, deploy and maintain flight dynamics software for spacecraft operations and/or mission analysis
- Design and implement precise orbit determination routines for real-time and batch applications
- Provide feasibility analyses for and drive implementation of orbit control designs
- Develop production software using standard CI/CD workflows
- Refine and automate existing processes
- Assist in LEOPS during satellite launches
- Monitor our constellation for CDMs and ensure COLA procedures are followed
- Serve as a GNC expert to support other teams
- Take on leadership of complex technical challenges
- Manage existing and new relations with 3rd parties
Requirements
- Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field is required, plus 2 or more years relevant experience
- Expertise in orbital mechanics and the space environment of Low Earth Orbit
- Solid understanding of state estimation/filtering and application to orbital mechanics
- Experience with continuous integration/continuous deployment best practices
- Experience deploying production software that runs on Kubernetes infrastructure
- Willingness to own complex technical projects and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams
- Eagerness to learn to new skills, and to teach others
- Proficiency in Python
- Experience in Guidance, Navigation, Control (GNC), Attitude Determination & Control Subsystem (ADCS), Dynamics & Control Systems, or related space vehicle systems is desired
- Experience with simulator/hardware test development and execution, as well as mission operations is a plus
Compensation
The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $124,741 - $155,927. 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? We’ve 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 [email protected]
To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!
