Senior RF Design Engineer

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

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior RF PCB Design Engineer to join our RF Systems team. In this role, you will be responsible for full-lifecycle development of RF systems for space. 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

• Own new PCB designs (single/multi-layer, RF/mixed-signal), as well as and oversee improvements to existing products

• Perform board-level EM analysis

• Perform RF system modeling & simulation

• Derive product specifications from system-level requirements

• Prototype, characterize, and support design validation of new RF products

• Support complex performance troubleshooting efforts

Requirements

• BSEE/Physics + 7 years related experience, or MSEE/Physics + 5 years related experience

• Proficiency in schematic capture & multilayer PCB layout (Altium preferred)

• Proficiency in RF/EM simulation tools (MWO, VSS, ADS, System Vue, HFSS)

• Solid understanding of RF Systems performance metrics and common impairments

• Solid understanding of common RF components (amplifiers, mixers, filters, oscillators)

• Proficiency with RF Test & Measurement equipment (spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, oscilloscope)

• Hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems

• Strong electronic circuit design fundamentals

• Strong verbal & visual communication 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…