Senior Technical Program Manager

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.

About the Role and Team

We are seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to lead the planning and execution of complex, high-impact programs as well as a portfolio of projects that drive the advancement of our ground segment technology program. You will be responsible for leading cross-functional engineering teams, managing full program lifecycle execution including schedule, budget, risk, and maintaining a portfolio adjacent projects. You will serve as a trusted leader to cross-functional teams, bringing deep domain expertise, sound judgment, and a track record of delivering complex programs in the aerospace domain.

Ground segment programs include earth-based infrastructure, facilities and operations to support the space mission. This is an exciting opportunity to join a mission-driven team and make a direct impact on major company initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Define the overall program plan for large-scale ground segment focused program, including scope, milestones, and delivery timelines.
• Align ground segment development activities with broader satellite mission operations and customer commitments.
• Drive execution across multiple projects within the program (e.g., mission planning, tasking interfaces, downlink infrastructure, data processing pipelines).
• Break down high-level requirements into projects / workstreams
• Establish success criteria for operational readiness and customer delivery.
• Coordinate across engineering disciplines (Satellite Ops, Tasking, Platform applications, SAR processing).
• Own and maintain the integrated master schedule (IMS)
• Identify risks and lead mitigation strategies.
• Drive decision-making on trade-offs between scope, schedule, and resources.
• Guide software teams developing mission operations software, APIs, and updates to tasking console.
• Oversee infrastructure teams deploying antennas, networking, and cloud-based processing / distribution.
• Oversee the rollout of new ground capabilities into live operations
• Ensure continuity of operations during cutover from legacy systems to new ground segment.
• Document lessons learned and established processes for long-term sustainment.

Qualifications

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $121,929 - $161,556. 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 :

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. 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 LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!

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