Satellite Operations Engineer

Location: Louisville, Colorado, United States (Hybrid)

Responsibilities: Lead the launch and commissioning of new satellites for autonomous operations. Monitor spacecraft health and perform spacecraft analysis, maintenance, and anomaly response. Develop, improve, and automate satellite operational procedures and engineering tools. Test, validate, and deploy satellite software updates; Support the execution of special projects and technology demonstrations. Participate in an on-call rotation as the first responder for spacecraft anomalies. Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to develop and maintain highly autonomous spacecraft operations. Improve the reliability and autonomy of Capella's expanding synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite constellation.

Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related technical field. Minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience. Proficiency in Python for automation and data analysis. Experience with Git or other version control systems; Familiarity with all of the following areas and significant experience in at least one: Astrodynamics Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Electrical Engineering Communications Systems Thermal Engineering Embedded Software PropulsionStrong communication and collaboration skills. Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. Comfortable working in fast-paced operational environments with uncertainty and real-time decision making.

Required: Must meet U.S. export control requirements under ITAR.Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required U.S. government authorizations.

Base salary: $110,000 to $145,000 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, location, and internal equity. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.401(k) retirement plan with employer matching. Unlimited paid time off (PTO).Paid holidays. Parental and adoption leave. Legal insurance. Home technology stipend.

Other Information: Hybrid position based in Louisville, Colorado, with the option to work remotely several days each week. Join Capella, an IonQ company, supporting next-generation space systems, quantum technologies, and national security missions. Work alongside multidisciplinary teams developing mission-ready satellite operations and autonomous spacecraft systems. IonQ is committed to providing an inclusive workplace and equal employment opportunities for all qualified applicants; Employment is subject to U.S. export control regulations and may require verification of work authorization and immigration status. Background screening is required before employment. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet every qualification listed.