NightDragon Acquisition Corp.
Principal RF Payload Engineer
NightDragon Acquisition Corp., Louisville, Colorado, United States, 80028
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 We are seeking a highly Principle RF Payload Engineer to join our RF Systems team. In this role, you will be responsible for the technical direction of satellite RF system architectures and subsystem design. As an integral part of our growing engineering team, you will be collaborating cross-functionally with electrical, software, thermal, mechanical, and spacecraft operations teams.
Responsibilities
Lead detailed RF system modeling & EM simulation efforts
Develop system level budgets, maintaining technical oversight of system performance throughout product lifecycle
Direct RF system architecture trade studies
High-level direction of design validation & qualification campaigns
Act as subject matter expert in new program proposal development
Manage the development of outsourced components and interface with external vendors
Provide guidance and mentorship for junior engineers
Requirements
BSEE/ + 13 years related experience, or MSEE/Physics + 11 years related experience
Experience developing RF system/payload budgets to assess margin to performance requirements
Expert knowledge of EM simulation tools for waveguide, antenna, and/or planar component design (MWO, ADS, HFSS)
Expert knowledge in at least two of the following areas:
Space-based antenna systems (single- and multi-aperture, passive and active)
Space-based high‑power PA design
Satellite communications transponder system design
Software defined radios and digital signal processing
Ultra‑stable oscillator / frequency synthesizer design
Expert knowledge of RF test & measurement methods
Deep hands‑on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems
Familiarity with spacecraft architectures and cross‑functional engineering stakeholders
Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers
Exceptional communication and presentation skills
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 ITAR here.
Preferred Qualifications
Proficiency with RF/communication system design tools (VSS, SystemVue, MATLAB)
Familiarity with microwave component assembly and packaging techniques
Knowledge of wireless communications standards, protocols, and link analysis
Past experience with multilayer mixed signal PCB design (Altium preferred)
Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
3D CAD modeling experience
Security clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance preferred
Compensation The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $179,087 - $223,859. 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 & 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 recruiting@capellaspace.com
To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
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 We are seeking a highly Principle RF Payload Engineer to join our RF Systems team. In this role, you will be responsible for the technical direction of satellite RF system architectures and subsystem design. As an integral part of our growing engineering team, you will be collaborating cross-functionally with electrical, software, thermal, mechanical, and spacecraft operations teams.
Responsibilities
Lead detailed RF system modeling & EM simulation efforts
Develop system level budgets, maintaining technical oversight of system performance throughout product lifecycle
Direct RF system architecture trade studies
High-level direction of design validation & qualification campaigns
Act as subject matter expert in new program proposal development
Manage the development of outsourced components and interface with external vendors
Provide guidance and mentorship for junior engineers
Requirements
BSEE/ + 13 years related experience, or MSEE/Physics + 11 years related experience
Experience developing RF system/payload budgets to assess margin to performance requirements
Expert knowledge of EM simulation tools for waveguide, antenna, and/or planar component design (MWO, ADS, HFSS)
Expert knowledge in at least two of the following areas:
Space-based antenna systems (single- and multi-aperture, passive and active)
Space-based high‑power PA design
Satellite communications transponder system design
Software defined radios and digital signal processing
Ultra‑stable oscillator / frequency synthesizer design
Expert knowledge of RF test & measurement methods
Deep hands‑on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems
Familiarity with spacecraft architectures and cross‑functional engineering stakeholders
Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers
Exceptional communication and presentation skills
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 ITAR here.
Preferred Qualifications
Proficiency with RF/communication system design tools (VSS, SystemVue, MATLAB)
Familiarity with microwave component assembly and packaging techniques
Knowledge of wireless communications standards, protocols, and link analysis
Past experience with multilayer mixed signal PCB design (Altium preferred)
Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
3D CAD modeling experience
Security clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance preferred
Compensation The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $179,087 - $223,859. 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 & 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 recruiting@capellaspace.com
To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!
#J-18808-Ljbffr