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Capella Space

Quality Engineer

Capella Space, Louisville, Colorado, United States, 80028

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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, we design, build, and operate 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. Capella is a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, and we are charting the future of Earth observation by integrating remote sensing and quantum technology to support customers with the highest level of data fidelity, security, and speed.

What Makes Capella Unique? We are 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, and every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and industry. We thrive on diverse perspectives that help us move faster, think deeper, and push the boundaries of innovation.

Role Responsibilities

Develop and enforce quality requirements for spacecraft structural assemblies, subassemblies, including propulsion systems, and components.

Lead, facilitate, investigate nonconformances with root cause corrective action (RCCA) methodologies such as 8D, DMAIC, and other structured problem-solving methods. Analyze NCRs, trends, supplier projects, and internal processes.

Provide real-time quality support on the manufacturing floor, including developing inspection test procedures, acceptance test procedures (ATP), and overseeing environmental testing quality compliance (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC).

Develop in-process inspection criteria, First Article Inspection plans, and final product acceptance protocols.

Develop, manage, and support MRB (Material Review Board) dispositions and oversee rework/repair activities.

Implement incoming inspection process for critical hardware and review supplier quality escape reports.

Collaborate with Systems Engineering to verify that critical-to-quality (CTQ) features are flowed down and verified at build stages.

Support internal and external audits, including customer and certification audits.

Manage supplier quality assurance activities for aerospace parts and assemblies.

Support manufacturing readiness activities including PFMEA and Control Plans.

Maintain calibration, gaging, and special process control systems in compliance with aerospace standards.

Train operators and inspectors on inspection methods, specifications, and quality requirements.

Ensure compliance with contractual quality requirements, ITAR regulations, and ISO/AS9100 standards.

Support failure investigations and anomaly resolutions for hardware issues.

Familiar with tracking and reporting supplier performance metrics (OTD, PPM, NCR rates).

Maintain strict configuration management and traceability of materials, processes, and documentation per standards.

Review engineering drawings, specifications, and process plans to ensure quality requirements are defined and met.

Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to develop robust process controls and inspection plans.

Support design for manufacturability and producibility reviews to ensure quality is built into critical spaceflight hardware.

Monitor and control special processes (e.g., bonding, welding, soldering) critical to spaceflight qualification.

Support design reviews, test readiness reviews, and customer acceptance milestones.

Conduct supplier audits, PPAP reviews, First Article Inspections per AS9102 standards.

Qualifications

B.S. or higher in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Systems, or Industrial)

8+ years of experience in a regulated industry (aerospace, robotics, medical device, automotive, or equivalent)

ASQ certifications are a plus

Experience with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)

Must be eligible to comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR. Capella employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise meet U.S. State Department authorizations.

Compensation The annual salary range for this role is $104,000 - $140,000. The final salary will be determined based on qualifications, experience, location, and market data. Benefits may vary depending on employment conditions.

Benefits & Perks

Extensive medical coverage, including vision and dental plans

Paid flexible time off policy

401(k) retirement plan

Parental leave program

Lifestyle spending account

Commuter & parking benefits

Mental health resources

Monthly phone stipend

Dog-friendly workspace with pet insurance options

Equal Opportunity Statement Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. 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 applicable law. We actively encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.

For assistance or accommodations during the application process, please contact recruiting@capellaspace.com.

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