Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanisms & Deployables

Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanisms & Deployables

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 & Team

We are seeking a Senior Manager Mechanical Engineering with deep expertise in spacecraft structures and deployable mechanisms. As a senior technical manager on our deployables engineering team, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and guiding the development of critical spacecraft structures and deployable systems—from concept through launch.

You will lead cross-functional efforts, mentor engineers, and ensure technical excellence in the design and execution of mechanical systems that withstand the rigors of launch and operate reliably in the harsh environment of space.

Role Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and technical leadership for all deployable structures and mechanisms programs.
• Define and drive the product development roadmap aligned with business goals, customer requirements, and technology trends.
• Support the mechanical design and development of primary and secondary spacecraft structures, including deployable mechanisms (e.g., solar arrays, booms, antennas, thermal radiators).
• Support cross-functional teams including design, analysis, manufacturing, and testing personnel
• Oversee end-to-end development of deployable systems from concept through qualification and delivery.
• Ensure project timelines, budgets, and performance metrics are met.
• Support proposal development, cost estimation, and resource planning for new business opportunities.
• Interface with customers, partners, and suppliers to ensure alignment of technical requirements and deliverables.
• Mentor and grow a high-performing engineering team; promote knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and career development.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering (master's or PhD preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in spacecraft mechanical engineering, with a strong focus on deployables and complex mechanisms.
• Experience with precision deployment mechanisms and/or kinematic linkages.
• Expertise in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo) and structural analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
• Demonstrated success designing flight-qualified hardware that has launched into space.
• In-depth knowledge of structural design principles, including lightweighting, material selection, and load path optimization.
• Experience leading hardware through environmental testing campaigns (TVAC, vibe, shock, etc.).
• Strong communication skills and ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering efforts.
• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with additive manufacturing for aerospace applications.
• Hands-on experience with spacecraft assembly, integration, and test (AI&T).
• Previous leadership of a small engineering team or technical project.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $146,000 - $193,562. 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
• 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.