Senior Software Test and Automation Engineer

About Capella

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 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?

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.

About the Role & Team

As a Senior Software Test & Automation Engineer on the Flight Software team, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining the Python-based test environments that verify our flight software and ensure robust performance across our satellite fleet. You will work closely with flight software engineers, ground software engineers, developers, and subsystem owners to design, implement, and maintain automated test scripts and test system features used to validate mission-critical functionality.

You will bring experience working with complex systems, a strong understanding of systems architecture, and a track record of creating comprehensive test plans. Your expertise in Python, automation, and system-level testing will ensure our flight software is validated thoroughly and reliably before it ever reaches space.

Role Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and execute test plans to identify issues, bugs, and defects before software release.
• Lead the creation and execution of detailed, comprehensive, and well-structured test plans and test cases.
• Develop and peer review software test code, specifically automated Python test scripts to be leveraged in the Continuous Integration environment.
• Perform software test trade studies such as: test management tools, continuous integration testing techniques and methodologies, software simulation platforms, etc.
• Manage (and execute) analysis of test results and test report generation
• Implement automated testing tools and frameworks to optimize the testing and verification processes.
• Report bugs and errors to development teams and provide insightful feedback to assist in the decision-making process.
• Liaise with internal flight software team members when necessary to clarify requirements or discuss testing strategies.
• Develop requirements and testing strategies in coordination with the flight software team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Program Management, Software Development, Flight Operations, etc.) to ensure quality throughout the software development lifecycle.
• Participate in Agile sprint planning, stand ups, and ticket tracking.
• Develop documentation and provide cross-training to other team members. 
• Troubleshoot andx resolve software test issues in a timely manner. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or related field of study.
• Familiarity with software test development and testing methodologies.
• Knowledge of Linux operating system environments and standard Linux tools.
• Strong knowledge of programming scripted languages (Python, shell script, etc.) and some experience with compiled languages (C, C++).
• Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment, and able to produce reliable products and documentation within established deadlines.
• Experience with version control, continuous integration, configuration management, deployment automation, containers, infrastructure orchestration and software testing. Gitlab experience preferred, but not necessary.
• Experience with hardware in the loop or simulated software testing environments.
• Experience working with real-time embedded systems.
• Hand-on experience with lab equipment and electronics hardware, e.g., oscilloscopes, logic analyzers. 
• 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 annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $130,500 - $148,470.00. 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.

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
• 401(k) Plan with Company Match to help you 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 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!