RF Test Engineer

Location: This role will be based onsite at our office in Louisville, Colorado office. 
Travel: Up to 5%
Job ID:  374

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 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.

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. No prior space experience is required. 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. Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capella’s ability to innovate and to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.

The Role

The Spacecraft Manufacturing & Test team is a small-but-growing group that 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. 

This role is open to a range of engineering backgrounds (software, electrical, physics, etc.) and experience levels. Your ability to learn and desire to solve problems are the most important qualifications. 

Responsibilities

• Integration and test of RF components and subassemblies
• Verification and troubleshooting of RF subsystems through all phases of spacecraft integration
• Develop and execute test plans and procedures for components and spacecraft systems 
• Develop/maintain 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 
• Maintain test equipment and facilities  
• Develop new electrical and mechanical ground support equipment 
• Adhere to safety and quality standards  

Requirements

• Hands-on experience with RF test equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators
• Knowledge of RF system architecture and impairments
• Knowledge of antenna properties and transmission line theory
• Hands-on experience working with RF PCB-based circuits
• Familiar with scripting/automation using Python 
• Experience and comfort handling and operating spacecraft flight hardware safely 
• A methodical approach to testing and problem solving of complex systems 
• A track record of safe and effective testing of complex systems 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment 
• 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 ITARhere.

Preferred Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering or related field 
• 3+ years of equivalent experience in test engineering or similar technical field 
• Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations 
• Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment 
• Experience testing high-power RF electronics

Compensation

The approximate base salary range for this position is $93,064 - $118,457. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.  

Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location and calibration against relevant market data and internal team equity.  Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. 

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

At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all, and we strive to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.  
 
We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/and follow us on X and LinkedInto see our SAR imagery!