Senior Software Engineer

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

As a Senior Software Engineer in Ground Segment at Capella Space, you will play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining high-availability distributed systems for our satellite constellation. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to develop technical solutions that enable efficient management and operation of our satellite network. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of space technology and play a key role in the success of Capella Space.

Expected Responsibilities

• Design and develop distributed systems to support satellite operations.
• Collaborate with teams to define system requirements and architecture.
• Implement software solutions to enable efficient data processing and transmission.
• Optimize system performance, reliability, and operability.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex distributed systems.
• Participate in on-call rotation schedule and lead complex incident investigations.
• Ensure software meets quality and security standards.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and coding and design standards.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality technical solutions.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, such as Computer Science, Software Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering.
• 8+ years of experience in software development with a focus on distributed systems.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Rust, Java or C++.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols and distributed computing concepts.
• Experience with cloud-based distributed systems and microservices such as AWS Lambda, S3, EKS, and SQS.
• Familiarity with containerization and orchestration platforms (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Knowledge of data storage and processing technologies such as SQL, MongoDB, InfluxDB, and Kafka.
• Experience with logging and monitoring systems, such as Elasticsearch and Grafana.
• Experience with version control systems such as Git.
• Experience with CI/CD systems such as Gitlab.
• Experience with deployment and configuration control systems such as Ansible.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Practiced skills in communication and collaboration.

Nice-To-Haves

• Experience working in an Agile environment.
• Willingness to partner with team members for design sessions, pair programming, and documentation.
• Desire to collaborate in person on a regular basis within the Capella offices (in Louisville CO or San Francisco CA).
• Familiarity with Ground Station as a Service providers such as KSAT, AWS Ground, and Atlas.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $133,411 - $160,454.  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!