Capella is at the forefront of making vital information about our world accessible in a timely manner. We’re leveraging proven technologies and building new capabilities to create a constellation of SAR satellites that can collect information about any spot on the planet within an hour.
At Capella you’ll work in a collaborative team environment, alongside smart people with a history of space mission success. No prior space experience is needed—we’re looking for people excited about tackling seemingly impossible challenges, learning new skills and concepts, and helping each other achieve success.
Our mission and our products are meant to understand the whole world and help everyone in it, regardless of race, creed, or any other distinction. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage all people to join our team and bring their unique perspective to help make us stronger.
We value diversity at Capella and welcome applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. If you like the sound of this position, but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please apply!
About the Role
The path from a collection of parts to an orbiting spacecraft in Capella's constellation isn't an easy one–every step of the way requires verifying the functionality, reliability, and durability of complex systems. As a Senior Spacecraft Systems Test Engineer, you will define, plan, perform, and document testing of Capella's innovative SAR spacecraft to ensure they are ready to provide the data our customers count on. You will also assist in the integration of flight hardware, and will support design and system test engineers to ensure the parts and software you receive are up to the task. Depending on your skills and interests, you may also design test fixtures and equipment, create automation tools to streamline and improve testing, and work with design engineers to develop the next generation of Capella spacecraft and products.
This hands-on role requires a strong understanding of the physics that affect our system; attention to detail and documentation; and the flexibility to respond safely and quickly to the inherent surprises of testing.
About the Team
The Spacecraft Integration & Test team is a small-but-growing group that works closely together and collaborates throughout the company. As the last stop before orbit, we work hard to navigate technical and schedule challenges to deliver safe, functional spacecraft. This requires schedule flexibility during challenging times, but we seek to maintain work-life balance in return.
Qualifications
This role is open to a range of engineering backgrounds (software, electrical, mechanical, etc.) and experience levels. Your ability to learn and desire to solve problems are the most important qualifications.
Required:
- Experience and comfort handling and operating flight hardware safely
- Basic mechanical, electrical, AND software aptitude–you're comfortable turning a wrench, probing with a multimeter, and using a Linux terminal
- Deep mechanical, electrical, OR software aptitude–and the willingness to teach those who don't share your specialty
- A methodical approach to testing and problem solving
- A track record of safe and effective testing of complex systems
Ideal:
- Bachelor's or higher in an engineering discipline
- Experience specifying and executing environmental testing including vibration, thermal, TVAC, and static load
- Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations
- Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment
- Fluent in scripting/automation using Python
- Background in quality processes, particularly nonconformance management and resolution
- Background in (and appreciation for) configuration and change management using PLM tools (Aras preferred)
- Familiarity with ECAD (Altium preferred) and/or MCAD (SolidWorks preferred)
CO Salary Range: $90k-138k
Salary is dependent upon qualifications and is paired with comprehensive benefits package.
In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative 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:
- Medical/Dental/Vision
- Disability and Life Insurance
- 401k plan
- Equity
- Health Care, Dependent Care FSAs
- Commuter/Parking Flex Spending
- Flexible vacation policy
- In-office lunch program
- Dog friendly work environment (SF)
All team members at Capella Space must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to help ensure the safety our community.
The definition of fully vaccinated is subject to change (may include boosters).
Accommodation requests based on medical or religious reasons will be reviewed on a case by case basis.