Senior Staff RF Test Engineer

Location:  This role is based onsite at our office in Louisville, CO
Travel:  Up to 5 %
Job ID: 571
About Capella
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 strengthen 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 deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.
The Role
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Staff RF Test Engineer for the Spacecraft Test team to lead RF testing of both current production hardware as well as newly developed spacecraft RF hardware. This candidate should possess a strong combination of hardware and software knowledge with a primary focus on RF test methodologies and automation
The Spacecraft Test team works closely together and collaborates throughout the company. From component production and testing to launch vehicle integration, we work hard to navigate technical and schedule challenges to deliver safe, functional spacecraft. This requires schedule flexibility during challenging times, but we seek to maintain work-life balance in return. 
Responsibilities


• Development and management of high-value component/subsystem testing campaigns

• Recommend and implement improvements to testing processes and methodologies

• Assist system team in development of practical and measurable product requirements

• Monitor and maintain test equipment and ensure facility capabilities to support testing activities are in place

• Mentor a team of test engineers and technicians

• Analyze test results, and provide detailed reports to relevant stakeholders

• Work with design team to incorporate changes in system design to meet requirements

• Integration and test of RF components and subassemblies

• Verification and troubleshooting of RF subsystems through all phases of spacecraft integration

• Identify testing methods, develop test plans, and design GSE for risk mitigation and requirements verification and/or validation

• Develop/maintain/improve test scripts within an existing test automation framework 

• Analyze test data and provide recommendations for improvements in both test quality and efficiency 

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues  

• Conduct environmental testing to ensure performance in various conditions  

• Participate in design reviews and provide input on testability 

• Adhere to safety and quality standards  

Qualifications


• Bachelor’s degree + 12 years related experience, or master’s degree + 8 years related experience

• Extensive hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or 

• systems 

• Expert knowledge of equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, 

• and arbitrary waveform generators 

• Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) 

• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, LabVIEW) for test automation 

• Strong understanding of RF system architectures, figures of merit, and common 

• impairments

• Strong understanding of RF principles, including signal propagation, modulation 

• techniques, and antenna theory

• Hands-on experience working with RF PCB-based circuits

• Experience and comfort handling and operating spacecraft flight hardware safely 

• Familiarity with spacecraft architecture and cross-functional engineering stakeholders

• A methodical approach to testing and problem solving of complex systems 

• A track record of safe and effective testing of complex systems 

• Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills

• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment 

Preferred Qualifications 


• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations 

• Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment 

• Experience testing high-power RF electronics

Required Qualification
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 .
Compensation  
The approximate base salary range for this position is $192,979 - $238,659 . The total compensation package includes base salary, bonus, equity, and a range of benefits available on our career site. 
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.

• Stock option grants for new hires  

• 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 [email protected]  
To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/   and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!