Quality Engineer

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.

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). Analysis of NCRs, trends, supplier projects, 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 (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) 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