Senior RF Design Engineer

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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.

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 team that values creativity, integrity, and bold thinking.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior RF PCB Design Engineer to join our RF Systems team. In this role, you will be responsible for full-lifecycle development of RF systems for space. As an integral part of our growing engineering team, you will be collaborating cross-functionally with electrical, software, thermal, mechanical, and spacecraft operations teams.

Responsibilities :

Own new PCB designs (single / multi-layer, RF / mixed-signal), as well as oversee improvements to existing products

Perform board-level EM analysis

Perform RF system modeling & simulation

Derive product specifications from system-level requirements

Prototype, characterize, and support design validation of new RF products

Support complex performance troubleshooting efforts

Requirements :

BSEE / Physics + 7 years related experience, or MSEE / Physics + 5 years related experience

Proficiency in schematic capture & multilayer PCB layout (Altium preferred)

Proficiency in RF / EM simulation tools (MWO, VSS, ADS, SystemVue, HFSS)

Solid understanding of RF Systems performance metrics and common impairments

Solid understanding of common RF components (amplifiers, mixers, filters, oscillators)

Proficiency with RF Test & Measurement equipment (spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, oscilloscope)

Hands‑on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and / or systems

Strong electronic circuit design fundamentals

Strong verbal & visual communication 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 be 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 Qualifications :

Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)

Previous aerospace industry experience or other mission‑critical field

Proficiency in Linux systems and command line scripting

Familiarity with common bus protocols (I2C, SPI, CAN)

3D CAD modeling experience

Security clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance preferred.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as posted is $155,104 - $193,880. 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

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.

Key Details

Seniority level : Mid‑Senior level

Employment type : Full‑time

Job function : Engineering and Information Technology

Industries : Defense and Space Manufacturing

To learn more about us, explore our site : https : / / www.capellaspace.com / and follow us on

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LinkedIn

to see our SAR imagery!

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