Senior Technical Program Manager

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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 worldwide with high‑resolution, timely Earth insights that drive better decisions across defense, intelligence, disaster response, environmental protection, energy, and more.

As a U.S.‑based company, Capella builds and operates an advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites. Backed by a fully automated tasking, collection, and delivery platform, we deliver fast, reliable insights whenever our customers need them. Capella, a subsidiary of IonQ, is charting the future of Earth observation by integrating quantum computing to provide ultra‑secure, low‑latency uplink and downlink capabilities and powerful on‑orbit analytics.

Capella has been named one of Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space (2023) and is a trusted partner of the U.S. Space Force, Air Force, Navy, NASA, and other government agencies worldwide.

We are seeking a Senior Technical Program Manager to lead the planning and execution of complex, high‑impact programs and a portfolio of projects that advance our ground segment technology program. You will manage full program lifecycle execution—including schedule, budget, risk—and coordinate cross‑functional engineering teams to deliver on customer commitments.

• 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 (mission planning, tasking interfaces, downlink infrastructure, data processing pipelines).
• Break down high‑level requirements into projects/ work streams.
• 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 the tasking console.
• Oversee infrastructure teams deploying antennas, networking, and cloud‑based processing/distribution.
• Oversee 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.

• 8+ years of relevant engineering and program management experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 5+ years with a master’s degree in engineering, systems, or a related technical discipline.
• Proficiency with project management software tools and collaboration platforms such as MS Project, Smartsheet, Jira, and Confluence.
• Experience with Jira/Agile management.
• Proven ability to manage technical development and/or R&D scope.
• Experience building and supporting ground segment infrastructure and operations preferred.
• Must meet U.S. Government export controls (ITAR). Capella employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations.

The annual salary range for this role is $121,929 – $161,556. Additional benefits and compensation vary by location and market data.

• Extensive medical coverage, including vision and dental plans.
• Flexible spending accounts and supplemental health options.
• Paid flexible time off policy.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Parental leave program.
• Lifestyle spending account.
• Commuter & parking benefits.
• Mental health resources.
• Monthly phone stipend.
• Pet‑friendly work environment and pet insurance options.

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, veteran status, or any other characteristic under applicable law.

For more information about us, visit Capella Space.

• Seniority level:
  Director
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Project Management and Information Technology
• Industries:
  Defense and Space Manufacturing