Staff Technical Program Manager

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 & Team 

We are seeking a Senior Staff Technical Program Manager to lead the planning and execution of complex, high-impact programs as well as a portfolio of projects that drive the advancement of our current and next-generation spacecraft. You will be responsible for leading cross-functional engineering teams, managing full program lifecycle execution—including schedule, budget, risk, and maintaining a portfolio of smaller research and development projects. You will serve as a trusted leader to cross-functional teams, bringing deep domain expertise, sound judgment, and a track record of delivering sophisticated hardware programs in the aerospace domain. 

You will also play a key role in mentoring and developing other program managers and team members, helping to elevate programmatic excellence and foster a culture of growth, accountability, and collaboration across the organization. This is an exciting opportunity to join a mission-driven team and make a direct impact on major company initiatives. 

Role Responsibilities

• Proven ability to manage a diverse portfolio aligned to business and technical strategy, while driving clarity, accountability, and measurable progress across multiple development efforts 
• Extensive experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets, including labor planning, materials procurement, and subcontractor oversight 
• Ability to synthesize complex technical requirements into actionable work plans and effectively manage interdependencies 
• Highly self-directed, adaptable, and effective in dynamic, fast-paced environment 
• Ability to prioritize projects and programs based on strategic importance, resource availability and business impact  
• Strong Problem-solving and proven data driving-decision making abilities, proactively identifying critical-path actions, risks, and opportunities to accelerate progress  
• Recognized mentor and leader, with a track record of developing other program managers and fost