Senior Software Engineer, Ground Segment

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 of Fast Companys 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.

About the Role

As a Senior Software Engineer in Ground Segment at Capella Space, you will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining high-availability distributed systems for our satellite constellation. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to develop technical solutions that enable efficient management and operation of our satellite network. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of space technology and play a key role in the success of Capella Space.

Expected Responsibilities

• Design and develop distributed systems to support satellite operations.
• Collaborate with teams to define system requirements and architecture.
• Implement software solutions to enable efficient data processing and transmission.
• Optimize system performance, reliability, and operability.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex distributed systems.
• Participate in on-call rotation schedule and lead complex incident investigations.
• Ensure software meets quality and security standards.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and coding and design standards.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality technical solutions.
• 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.

Desired Qualifications

Nice-To-Haves

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $133,411 - $160,454. 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, 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@.

To learn more about us, explore our site : and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!

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