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.

Role Summary:
A Level 6 InSAR Engineer at Capella is recognized as an industry expert with profound knowledge and extensive experience in interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR). This role involves strategic leadership, high-level problem-solving, and acting as a key spokesperson for the company’s technical advancements and innovations. The Principal Engineer is pivotal in driving the development and execution of critical InSAR projects and aligning them with the company's long-term vision.

Core Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Utilize professional expertise to resolve critical issues and guide broad design and technical matters in InSAR. Provide strategic direction for InSAR initiatives and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Innovation and Development: Lead the development of advanced InSAR techniques, products, and technologies. Focus on addressing future concepts and solving significant design challenges to push the boundaries of current capabilities.
• Network Creation: Establish and cultivate formal networks with key decision-makers, stakeholders, and industry experts to drive strategic initiatives and collaborations.
• Representation: Serve as an external spokesperson, representing Capella at industry conferences, workshops, and meetings. Present technical advancements and innovations, enhancing the company's reputation in the field.
• Wide Latitude in Decision-Making: Exercise significant independence in determining objectives and approaches for critical assignments and projects. Ensure that the strategic goals are met through innovative solutions and effective resource allocation.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree or 12 years with a Master’s degree or a PhD with 8 years of experience or equivalent experience
• Technical Mastery: Extensive expertise in SAR fundamentals, InSAR processing, orbital dynamics, and advanced programming utilities. Mastery in developing and implementing pairwise and time-series InSAR processing techniques.
• Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to address complex and broad design issues with innovative solutions. Experience in leading strategic initiatives that align with company objectives.
• Leadership: Extensive experience in leading high-impact projects, managing multidisciplinary teams, and collaborating with top management and industry experts.
• Communication: Superior communication skills for effective leadership and representation. Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders.
• 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.

Preferred Expertise:

• Renowned expertise in advanced InSAR techniques and applications.
• Significant contributions to the field through publications, patents, or industry awards.
• In-depth knowledge of current industry trends and developments in radar and satellite systems.

Role Expectations:

• Drive strategic initiatives and technological advancements to enhance Capella’s InSAR capabilities.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of technological advancements and industry trends.
• Foster a culture of innovation and excellence within the engineering team.
• Mentor and guide other engineers within the organization, promoting professional growth and knowledge sharing.
• Represent Capella as a thought leader in the field of InSAR, contributing to the company's prestige and influence in the industry.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $162,355 - $195,600. 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? 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 recruiting@capellaspace.com

To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!