Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

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.

About the Role

The Mechanical Engineering team is responsible for designing and building the spacecrafts, prototypes, and fixtures at Capella. We are responsible for the full design life cycling starting from: requirement definition, concept development, analysis to validate design, drawings for production, assembling prototypes and flight articles, all the way to supporting verification testing. Team members will get to perform a variety of exciting tasks throughout the life cycle of the project.

As a Mechanical Engineer III, you will be supporting the design of a major subsystem. Your focus will be satellite design, but you will also be leaned upon to help out cross functionally across different departments including improving and scaling production. Design work will vary anywhere from ground support fixturing, to electronic sub assembly packaging, to full satellite layout. Good communication is a must as you will be working with many different teams and vendors to come up with a design that satisfies system level requirements and takes us to the next level.

Requirements

• Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering; graduate degree preferred.
• 2-5 year experience in a related field.
• Experience with Solidworks CAD Software for design and analysis
• Experience creating Manufacturing Drawings with knowledge of GD&T.
• Strong understanding of tolerancing and stack ups.
• Strong understanding of RF, thermal, and power systems.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with spacecraft design
• Experience with spacecraft environmental verification
• Experience interacting with vendors and machine shops to procure parts.
• Experience with Electronic packaging including harness routing layout and design
• Experience with PDM/PLM systems
• Experience with FEA using Solidworks Simulation or similar software
• Familiarity with NASA / MIL-STD processes and how to handle flight hardware.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $96,288- $120,360. 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.
• Paid Flexible Time Off Policy
• 401K Plan to 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 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.