Published: Sat, 30 Aug 2025 02:51:19 GMT
Position: Guidance, Navigation & Controls Engineer
Company: Capella Space
About Capella Space:
Capella Space is a leading provider of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. Our mission is to provide high-resolution, timely Earth insights to government, commercial, and research organizations around the world. Our advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites, designed, built, and operated in the U.S., offers fast, reliable insights for a variety of industries including defense and intelligence, disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, environmental protection, and energy.
As a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, Capella is at the forefront of integrating advanced remote sensing and quantum technology. This innovative integration will provide our customers with the highest level of data fidelity, security, and speed.
Named one of Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023, Capella 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. Our parent company, IonQ, has also been recognized on Built In’s 2025 Best Places to Work lists.
What Makes Capella Unique?
At Capella, we don’t just imagine what’s possible – we make it happen. Our team is driven by curiosity, determination, and a shared mission to redefine the limits of space innovation. We value collaboration and operate in a fast-paced environment. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and industry. We believe that diverse perspectives lead to faster progress and bold thinking. Whether you are new to the space industry or a seasoned expert, you’ll find a team that values creativity, integrity, and innovation. Join us as we build the future of SAR and bring quantum computing to space.
The Role:
We are seeking a talented and experienced Guidance, Navigation & Controls (GNC) Engineer to support the development of advanced capabilities for our next-generation spacecraft. In this role, you will contribute to efforts in orbit determination, orbit prediction, orbit control, collision avoidance, formation flying, and system simulation and modeling. You will have the opportunity to solve complex technical challenges and take pride in building robust, high-performance systems that operate reliably on the ground and in space.
As a GNC Engineer, you will play a key role in reviewing system design and software, taking ownership of challenging new projects as Capella evolves. You will work closely with your team and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver against an ambitious technology roadmap.
What You’ll Do:
– Build, deploy, and maintain flight dynamics software for spacecraft operations and/or mission analysis
– Design and implement precise orbit determination routines for real-time and batch applications
– Provide feasibility analyses and drive implementation of orbit control designs
– Develop production software using standard CI/CD workflows
– Refine and automate existing processes
– Assist in LEOPS during satellite launches
– Monitor our constellation for CDMs and ensure COLA procedures are followed
– Serve as a GNC expert to support other teams
– Take on leadership of complex technical challenges
– Manage existing and new relations with 3rd parties
Requirements:
– Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field, plus 2 or more years of relevant experience
– Expertise in orbital mechanics and the space environment of Low Earth Orbit
– Solid understanding of state estimation/filtering and application to orbital mechanics
– Experience with continuous integration/continuous deployment best practices
– Experience deploying production software that runs on Kubernetes infrastructure
– Willingness to own complex technical projects and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams
– Eagerness to learn new skills and teach others
– Proficiency in Python
– Experience in Guidance, Navigation, Control (GNC), Attitude Determination & Control Subsystem (ADCS), Dynamics & Control Systems, or related space vehicle systems is desired
– Experience with simulator/hardware test development and execution, as well as mission operations is a plus
Compensation:
The annual salary range for this role is $124,741 – $155,927. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education, qualifications, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location, and relevant market data. Benefits may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.
Benefits/Perks:
At Capella Space, we take care of our employees and show our appreciation in various ways, including:
– Extensive medical coverage, including vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options
– 401K plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
– Generous parental leave
– Paid flexible time off policy
– Lifestyle spending account
– Commuter and parking benefits
– Mental health resources
– Monthly phone stipend
– Dog-friendly work environment and pet insurance options
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and upholding equitable hiring practices. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you require assistance or accommodation during the job application process, please contact us at [email protected].
To learn more about us, visit our website at https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery. Apply link