Principal RF Payload Engineer

About Capella

Capella, an IonQ company, builds trusted space systems that deliver secure, rapid, and actionable Earth intelligence to amplify decision-making for allied partners. As the first U.S. company to launch and operate a commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation, Capella provides precise, high-resolution radar imagery in any condition—day or night, through clouds, smoke, and darkness. Capella is defining the future of space-based intelligence through a vertically integrated approach that spans spacecraft design, advanced radar payloads, manufacturing, automated tasking, and low-latency delivery of mission-ready data. Capella designs for the realities of modern defense and intelligence: speed, sovereignty, and resilience. Powered by IonQ, Capella is creating the world’s first quantum-enabled Earth observation network—transforming how intelligence is delivered through innovation, speed, and trust. This next-generation architecture will provide governments and global partners with a decisive edge: the ability to see, decide, and act with confidence in any environment.    

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?

Capella, an IonQ company, spans national security, advanced sensing, and next-generation compute to deliver secure, mission-ready intelligence. Capella’s culture is built on collaboration, rigorous engineering, and a shared commitment to delivering solutions that strengthens global stability and security. Team members work side-by-side with some of the most innovative minds in space systems, quantum-enabled technologies, and mission-critical operations. Capella values curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to tackle hard problems with precision and creativity. Capella welcomes and encourages applicants whose perspectives are historically underrepresented in technology, national security, and aerospace. No prior space experience is required.  Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capella’s ability to innovate and to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide. 

About the Role 

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. 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:

• 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

Requirements:

• 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 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 Qualifications:

• Proficiency with RF/communication system design tools (VSS, SystemVue, 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

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $179,087 - $223,859. 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.    

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
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match to help you 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 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!