Regulatory Compliance Intern

Regulatory Compliance Intern

Capella, an IonQ company, builds trusted space systems that deliver secure, rapid, and actionable Earth intelligence to amplify decision-making for allied partners. As the first U.S. company to launch and operate a commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation, Capella provides precise, high-resolution radar imagery in any condition—day or night, through clouds, smoke, and darkness. Capella is defining the future of space-based intelligence through a vertically integrated approach that spans spacecraft design, advanced radar payloads, manufacturing, automated tasking, and low-latency delivery of mission-ready data. Capella designs for the realities of modern defense and intelligence: speed, sovereignty, and resilience. Powered by IonQ, Capella is creating the world's first quantum-enabled Earth observation network—transforming how intelligence is delivered through innovation, speed, and trust. This next-generation architecture will provide governments and global partners with a decisive edge: the ability to see, decide, and act with confidence in any environment.

Capella, an IonQ company, spans national security, advanced sensing, and next-generation compute to deliver secure, mission-ready intelligence. Capella's culture is built on collaboration, rigorous engineering, and a shared commitment to delivering solutions that strengthens global stability and security. Team members work side-by-side with some of the most innovative minds in space systems, quantum-enabled technologies, and mission-critical operations. Capella values curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to tackle hard problems with precision and creativity. Capella welcomes and encourages applicants whose perspectives are historically underrepresented in technology, national security, and aerospace. No prior space experience is required. Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capella's ability to innovate and to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.

Capella's 10-week, in-person internship program (June 8–August 14, 2026) gives students hands-on experience in spacecraft development, operations, and geospatial technology. Interns work directly on meaningful projects while building technical skills, industry insight, and professional connections. The program includes mentorship, team engagement, and social events that support a balanced and collaborative experience. A stipend is provided to help with living expenses.

We are seeking a Regulatory Compliance Intern to join Capella's Legal and Regulatory Compliance (LRC) Department. Working under the supervision of the Regulatory Compliance Manager, and in close collaboration with the Legal and Trade Compliance departments, you'll assist in a variety of legal and regulatory projects that support Capella's growing global operations. This internship offers hands-on regulatory experience supporting satellite launch and operations in a fast-paced aerospace and technology environment. You'll track and analyze regulatory developments, support policy engagement, and help prepare materials for, and attend, meetings with government officials. You'll learn how an in-house legal team supports a high-growth space technology company and contribute to meaningful work that helps the team operate efficiently and mitigate risk.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Legal and Regulatory Compliance team with drafting, reviewing, and organizing regulatory filings, correspondence, and reports.
• Monitor, analyze and conduct research on regulatory trends and topics relevant to Capella, an IonQ company related to RF spectrum, geospatial AI tools, optical communications, and export controls (ITAR/EAR).
• Help maintain and update regulatory templates, playbooks, and policy documents.
• Contribute to the implementation of legal tools for contract and workflow management.
• Participate in team meetings to observe and support cross-functional collaboration with business, technical, and regulatory stakeholders.
• Prepare internal summaries, reports, and presentations for use by the LRC team and leadership.

Qualifications

• Currently attending a degree program and available to work full time for 10 weeks outside of the university academic term.
• In their penultimate academic year or returning to a degree program after completion of the internship.
• 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. Learn more about ITAR here.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current graduate student in good academic standing pursuing a degree in law, public policy, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative mindset.
• Rigorous policy research skills, or the ability to find, interpret, and distill complex research into clear, concise takeaways and recommendations.
• Excellent project management discipline. Someone who is organized, systematic, and dependable in juggling deadlines.
• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort working with digital documentation systems.
• Interest in the aerospace, satellite, or technology sectors.

Compensation

• This internship will be a 40-hour a week commitment at the pay of $30 per hour. An allowance will also be provided to support living costs throughout the program.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Capella, an IonQ company 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.