Junior Imagery Analyst

About Capella Space

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.

What Makes Capella Unique?

At Capella, we don’t just imagine what’s possible - we build it. We’re a mission-driven team fueled by curiosity, grit, and a shared commitment to redefining the limits of space innovation. Our environment is fast paced, rooted in humble collaboration. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and our industry. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossible—we're the place for you. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere, and we thrive on diverse perspectives that help us move faster, think deeper, and push the boundaries of innovation. Whether you're new to the space industry or a seasoned expert, you'll find a team that values creativity, integrity, and bold thinking. Join us as we build the future of SAR—and take quantum to space.

About the Role

We are seeking a Junior Imagery Analyst to join our geospatial team, supporting the review, interpretation, and quality assurance of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery products. This role is ideal for someone with early professional experience in GIS or remote sensing who is ready to apply their skills in a fast-paced operational environment, while continuing to grow into a subject-matter expert.

You will work closely with senior analysts and engineers to ensure that our imagery products meet the highest standards of accuracy and usability for defense, intelligence, commercial, and environmental customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform imagery analysis and quality checks on SAR products, identifying artifacts, anomalies, and data issues.
• Use GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, GDAL, ENVI, or similar) to visualize, compare, and validate imagery.
• Conduct geospatial accuracy checks, including geometry, metadata, and radiometry validation.
• Support change detection and feature identification tasks as part of broader imagery analysis workflows.
• Document results in clear QA reports and recommend corrective actions where appropriate.
• Maintain data organization and imagery archives to ensure consistency and traceability.
• Continue learning advanced SAR concepts and analytical techniques under the mentorship of senior staff.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Geography, GIS, Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 1–2 years of relevant experience in imagery analysis, GIS, or remote sensing preferred.
• Proficiency with geospatial tools and platforms (ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar).
• Understanding of remote sensing fundamentals and basic SAR/EO imagery interpretation.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving ability.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• 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

• Experience working with SAR data (processing, visualization, or QA).
• Familiarity with scripting (Python, R, or MATLAB) for geospatial analysis and workflow automation.
• Prior exposure to defense, aerospace, or geospatial intelligence applications.
• Knowledge of geospatial data standards, metadata structures, and QA practices.
• Ability to work independently with minimal oversight while knowing when to escalate issues.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $61,320 -  $76,650. 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. 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 LinkedInto see our SAR imagery!