Senior Staff RF Test Engineer

Capella•Louisville, CO

3d•$192,979 - $238,659•Onsite

About The Position

Capella, an IonQ company, spans national security, advanced sensing, and next-generation compute to deliver secure, mission-ready intelligence. Capella’s culture is built on collaboration, rigorous engineering, and a shared commitment to delivering solutions that strengthen global stability and security. Team members work side-by-side with some of the most innovative minds in space systems, quantum-enabled technologies, and mission-critical operations. Capella values curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to tackle hard problems with precision and creativity. Capella welcomes and encourages applicants whose perspectives are historically underrepresented in technology, national security, and aerospace. No prior space experience is required. Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capella’s ability to innovate and deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide. We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Staff RF Test Engineer for the Spacecraft Test team to lead RF testing of both current production hardware as well as newly developed spacecraft RF hardware. This candidate should possess a strong combination of hardware and software knowledge with a primary focus on RF test methodologies and automation. The Spacecraft Test team works closely together and collaborates throughout the company. From component production and testing to launch vehicle integration, 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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree + 12 years related experience, or master’s degree + 8 years 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
Hands-on experience working with RF PCB-based circuits
Experience and comfort handling and operating spacecraft flight hardware safely
Familiarity with spacecraft architecture and cross-functional engineering stakeholders
A methodical approach to testing and problem solving of complex systems
A track record of safe and effective testing of complex systems
Experience leading teams and mentoring junior engineers
Exceptional communication and presentation skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Capella Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations
Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment
Experience testing high-power RF electronics

Responsibilities

Development and management of high-value component/subsystem testing campaigns
Recommend and implement improvements to testing processes and methodologies
Assist system team in development of practical and measurable product requirements
Monitor and maintain test equipment and ensure facility capabilities to support testing activities are in place
Mentor a team of test engineers and technicians
Analyze test results, and provide detailed reports to relevant stakeholders
Work with design team to incorporate changes in system design to meet requirements
Integration and test of RF components and subassemblies
Verification and troubleshooting of RF subsystems through all phases of spacecraft integration
Identify testing methods, develop test plans, and design GSE for risk mitigation and requirements verification and/or validation
Develop/maintain/improve test scripts within an existing test automation framework
Analyze test data and provide recommendations for improvements in both test quality and efficiency
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues
Conduct environmental testing to ensure performance in various conditions
Participate in design reviews and provide input on testability
Adhere to safety and quality standards