Staff RF Verification Test Engineer 

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 

We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Staff RF Verification Test Engineer for our Development Test Engineering team to lead the RF performance & qualification testing of newly developed spacecraft RF hardware. The Development Test Engineering team is responsible for the verification and validation of requirements – bridging the gap between design and production of our next generation components, subsystems, and satellites. 

Role Responsibilities  

• Create comprehensive test plans, including defining test cases, coverage plans, and methodologies for RF verification 
• Establish standards for RF testing techniques, equipment, fixturing, care & maintenance 
• Develop test automation and reporting frameworks using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW 
• Develop advanced methods for wideband radar and communications test signal generation, digitization, and processing 
• Lead the execution of RF qualification testing for devices, subsystems, and antennas 
• Lead the investigation of RF performance issues with support from the RF design team 
• Collaborate with design, systems, and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet all RF performance requirements and environmental specifications 
• Guide and mentor junior engineers and technicians in RF test techniques and best practices 

Required Qualifications

• BSEE + 12 years related experience, or MSEE + 10-year related experience  
• Extensive hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systems 
• Expert knowledge of equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform generators 
• Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB) 
• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, LabVIEW) for test automation 
• Strong understanding of RF system architectures, figures of merit, and common impairments  
• Strong understanding of RF principles, including signal propagation, modulation techniques, and antenna theory 
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams

Preferred Qualifications 

• Hands-on experience with high-power RF electronics  
• Experience in aerospace or another high-reliability / mission-critical field 
• Proficiency in Linux systems and command line scripting  

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $125,000 - $180,000. 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.
• 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!