Senior Manager, Component Assembly, Integration and Test (AI&T)

Capella Space stands at the forefront of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology and signal intelligence. We provide customers in governments, academia, and commercial sectors with reliable information that enables unparalleled understanding of the world. Our mission is centered on delivering timely and reliable Earth imagery, supporting diverse applications in defense & intelligence, disaster response, energy, environmental monitoring and more. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, Capella Space designs, manufactures and operates an advanced constellation of SAR imaging satellites. Our market-leading SAR satellites are complemented by an unmatched data infrastructure and automated ordering and delivery platform for fast, reliable insights where and when customers need it most. 

Recognized for our technological prowess, Capella Space was honored as one of the 10 most innovative companies in Space in 2023 by FASTCOMPANY. Capella Space is an internationally trusted Earth Observation data provider, working closely with the U.S. Space Systems Command, U.S. Space Force, NASA, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. National Reconnaissance Office, the Canadian Government and more to make unclassified, high-resolution SAR data more accessible.  

What Makes Capella Unique? 

Capella Space is a highly collaborative team environment, providing an opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the space industry, though 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 encourage you to bring your unique perspective to help make us stronger, including applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. 

About the Role & Team 

The Manufacturing team at Capella Space is dedicated to building, testing, and launching high-quality hardware on schedule with impeccable quality. As the Senior Manager of Component AI&T, you will be responsible for overseeing the assembly and functional/environmental testing of PCBAs and spacecraft components, including avionics, RF systems, power distribution units, sensor payloads and others. This position requires expertise in both electrical and mechanical assembly/testing, a strong quality-driven mindset, and the ability to establish processes and work centers from the ground up. The scope encompasses both in-house and external assembly, requiring exceptional organizational skills, technical breadth, and hands-on action. 

Role Responsibilities

• Lead the Avionics and Payload Component AI&T team by hiring, training, and mentoring engineers and technicians.
• Define and implement training programs to upskill engineers and technicians, fostering a high-performance AI&T team.
• Oversee day-to-day production activities, track metrics for production rate and quality, and ensure timely delivery of conforming hardware.
• Develop and implement automated test solutions for spacecraft component-level functional and environmental testing.
• Optimize component test plans with a focus on automation, efficiency, and continuous reduction of test cycle times.
• Design, validate, and maintain standard test racks for functional and environmental testing of all products.
• Establish and optimize production areas within our factory to support assembly and testing of PCBAs and component assemblies for Capella Space products.
• Partner with design, supply chain, and external vendors to drive continuous improvements in build quality and manufacturability.
• Develop Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) standards and collaborate with design engineering teams to ensure adoption.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 5+ years of experience leading spacecraft component test efforts and transitioning products from development to production.
• Strong production leadership experience and capabilities.  Proven ability to recruit, retain, and motivate top talent in spacecraft production.  Proven change management experience to mature production and test processes.
• Proven expertise in designing spacecraft and component test architecture, including script writing, test procedure creation, and test asset management.
• Extensive experience with test scripting and automation for spacecraft components, including avionics, RF systems, power distribution units, and sensor payloads.
• Ability to debug and diagnose failures in electrical and mechanical test setups, troubleshoot issues at the component and system level, and drive root cause analysis.
• Ability to influence cross-functional teams using data and well-reasoned engineering or business rationale.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a collaborative environment with daily interactions among technicians, engineers, and managers.

Preferred

• Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES) and ERP tools
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing principles and industry best practices
• Experience implementing AS9100 in spacecraft production
• Strong proficiency in DFM and DFT principles.
• Hands-on experience with assembly tools (e.g., torque wrenches, fixtures) and electrical test equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies)

Travel Requirement

• Significant travel required to our San Francisco office for the first 3-6 months of employment. Travel requirement reduces to 10% after initial period.

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $147,000 - $195,000.  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.
• Stock option grants for new hires 
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Generous Parental Leave 
• Paid Flexible Time Off Policy 
• Lifestyle Spending Account 
• Commuter & Parking Benefits 
• Mental Health Resources 
• Monthly Phone Stipend 
• Daily provided lunches and stocked kitchens. 
• Furry friends? We’ve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with 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!