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Capella Space

Staff Radar Engineer

Capella Space, San Francisco, California, United States, 94199

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Overview

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 with a fully automated tasking, collection, and delivery platform. Capella is a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, and we are charting the future of Earth observation to bring quantum computing to space—unlocking ultra-secure uplink and downlink capabilities, reducing latency, and enabling on-orbit analytics. This integration supports customers with high 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. Role Summary

A Level 6 InSAR Engineer at Capella is recognized as an industry expert with profound knowledge and extensive experience in interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR). This role involves strategic leadership, high-level problem-solving, and acting as a key spokesperson for the company’s technical advancements and innovations. The Principal Engineer is pivotal in driving the development and execution of critical InSAR projects and aligning them with the company\'s long-term vision. Core Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

Utilize professional expertise to resolve critical issues and guide broad design and technical matters in InSAR. Provide strategic direction for InSAR initiatives and ensure alignment with organizational goals. Innovation and Development:

Lead the development of advanced InSAR techniques, products, and technologies. Focus on addressing future concepts and solving significant design challenges to push the boundaries of current capabilities. Network Creation:

Establish and cultivate formal networks with key decision-makers, stakeholders, and industry experts to drive strategic initiatives and collaborations. Representation:

Serve as an external spokesperson, representing Capella at industry conferences, workshops, and meetings. Present technical advancements and innovations, enhancing the company\'s reputation in the field. Wide Latitude in Decision-Making:

Exercise significant independence in determining objectives and approaches for critical assignments and projects. Ensure that strategic goals are met through innovative solutions and effective resource allocation. Experience and Qualifications

Minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor\'s degree or 12 years with a Master’s degree or a PhD with 8 years of experience, or equivalent experience. Technical Mastery:

Extensive expertise in SAR fundamentals, InSAR processing, orbital dynamics, and advanced programming utilities. Mastery in developing and implementing pairwise and time-series InSAR processing techniques. Strategic Thinking:

Proven ability to address complex and broad design issues with innovative solutions. Experience in leading strategic initiatives that align with company objectives. Leadership:

Extensive experience in leading high-impact projects, managing multidisciplinary teams, and collaborating with top management and industry experts. Communication:

Superior communication skills for effective leadership and representation. Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain necessary authorizations from U.S. authorities. Learn more about ITAR here. Preferred Expertise

Renowned expertise in advanced InSAR techniques and applications. Significant contributions to the field through publications, patents, or industry awards. In-depth knowledge of current industry trends and developments in radar and satellite systems. Role Expectations

Drive strategic initiatives and technological advancements to enhance Capella’s InSAR capabilities. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of technological advancements and industry trends. Foster a culture of innovation and excellence within the engineering team. Mentor and guide other engineers within the organization, promoting professional growth and knowledge sharing. Represent Capella as a thought leader in InSAR, contributing to the company\'s prestige and influence in the industry. Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as posted is $162,355 - $195,600. The final level and salary will be determined based on education, qualifications, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience, as well as office location and market data. Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space. Benefits

We offer extensive medical coverage (including vision and dental), flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan, parental leave, lifestyle spending account, commuter and parking benefits, mental health resources, monthly phone stipend, and pet-friendly options where applicable. Equal Opportunity Statement

Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under applicable laws. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the application process, please notify recruiting@capellaspace.com. To learn more about us, explore our site: capellaspace.com, and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery.

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