Manager, Satellite Operations

Manager, Satellite Operations

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.

We are looking for a hands-on leader to manage a team of talented Satellite Operations Engineers responsible for the full life cycle of mission operations, including ground system integration, operation procedure development, satellite command and control, software development, and mission data analysis. In this role, you will provide both technical direction and people management, guiding a growing team while remaining closely involved in the development of operational systems for our space-based assets.

You will lead and mentor engineers across multiple disciplines, fostering a collaborative environment where technical excellence and mission assurance are paramount. You'll ensure the team is aligned with company priorities, own team staffing and development, and actively contribute to the architecture and evolution of our automated operations platform.

The Capella operations center is nominally entirely automated by software with operators on-console to support critical mission events like launch, early operations, and on-call anomaly response. Your team will be responsible for continuously improving this autonomous system, developing new procedures, building automation and scripting tools, and supporting mission-critical events such as launches and anomaly response. You'll be the point of escalation for complex technical issues and drive root-cause investigations to resolution.

This hybrid role requiring technical depth, strong systems thinking, and experience scaling operational processes across a fleet of spacecraft. The role is based in our Louisville, CO office and includes participation in an on-call rotation for anomaly response support.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and grow a high-performing team of Satellite Operations Engineers
• Oversee day-to-day operations, career development, staffing, and performance management
• Set technical direction and ensure high standards of operational readiness and autonomy
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across software, satellite engineering, and product teams to optimize mission outcomes
• Drive improvements in system automation, anomaly detection and resolution, and fleet health monitoring
• Ensure operational procedures are well-documented, validated, and scalable
• Participate in on-call rotations as needed and lead complex incident investigations
• Support product demonstrations, mission readiness reviews, and other special initiatives

Qualifications

• 8+ years experience leading technical teams, preferably in satellite or aerospace operations
• Proficiency in Python and experience building tools or automation for operations
• Familiarity with each of the following disciplines and significant experience with at least one:
• Astrodynamics
• Guidance, Navigation, and Control
• Electrical Engineering
• Communications Systems
• Thermal Engineering
• Embedded Software
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to operate under real-time mission constraints
• Demonstrated experience scaling operational systems for fleets and constellations
• A mindset of continuous improvement, data-driven analysis, and incident resolution
• 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.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $137,225 - $181,825. 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 Space.

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.
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Generous Parental Leave
• Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• Commuter & Parking Benefits
• Mental Health Resources
• Monthly Phone Stipend
• Daily provided lunches and stocked kitchens.
• Furry friends? We've got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with 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. 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.