Principal RF Payload Engineer

Overview

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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.

We are seeking a highly experienced Principle RF Payload Engineer to join our RF Systems team. In this role, you will be responsible for the technical direction of satellite RF system architectures and subsystem design. You will collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, software, thermal, mechanical, and spacecraft operations teams.

• Lead detailed RF system modeling & EM simulation efforts
• Develop system level budgets, maintaining technical oversight of system performance throughout product lifecycle
• Direct RF system architecture trade studies
• High-level direction of design validation & qualification campaigns
• Act as subject matter expert in new program proposal development
• Manage the development of outsourced components and interface with external vendors
• Provide guidance and mentorship for junior engineers

• BSEE/Physics + 13 years related experience, or MSEE/Physics + 11 years related experience
• Experience developing RF system/payload budgets to assess margin to performance requirements
• Expert knowledge of EM simulation tools for waveguide, antenna, and/or planar component design (MWO, ADS, HFSS)
• Expert knowledge in at least two of the following areas:
• Space-based antenna systems (single- and multi-aperture, passive and active)
• Space-based high-power PA design
• Satellite communications transponder system design
• Software defined radios and digital signal processing
• Ultra-stable oscillator / frequency synthesizer design
• Expert knowledge of RF test & measurement methods
• Deep hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems
• Familiarity with spacecraft architectures and cross-functional engineering stakeholders
• Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR here.

• Proficiency with RF/communication system design tools (VSS, System Vue, MATLAB)
• Familiarity with microwave component assembly and packaging techniques
• Knowledge of wireless communications standards, protocols, and link analysis
• Past experience with multilayer mixed signal PCB design (Altium preferred)
• Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
• 3D CAD modeling experience
• Security clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance preferred

The annual salary range for this role as it is…