About Capella SpaceCapella 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 <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/90849109/most-innovative-companies-space-2023">Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023</a> 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 <a href="https://ionq.com/news/ionq-awarded-prestigious-recognitions-by-forbes-investors-business-daily-and">lists</a>.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.The Mechanical Engineering team is responsible for designing and building the spacecrafts, prototypes, and fixtures at Capella. We are responsible for the full design life cycling starting from: requirement definition, concept development, analysis to validate design, drawings for production, assembling prototypes and flight articles, all the way to supporting verification testing.  Team members will get to perform a variety of exciting tasks throughout the life cycle of the project.As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be supporting the design of a major subsystem. Your focus will be satellite design, but you will also be leaned upon to help out cross functionally across different departments including improving and scaling production. Design work will vary anywhere from ground support fixturing, to electronic sub assembly packaging, to full satellite layout. Good communication is a must as you will be working with many different teams and vendors to come up with a design that satisfies system level requirements and takes us to the next level.Requirements<ul><li>Design &amp; Analysis: Create 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks for spacecraft mechanical systems, including structural components, thermal systems, and electrical packaging.</li><li>Manufacturing Drawings: Develop detailed manufacturing drawings with a strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&amp;T) principles.</li><li>Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, including electrical and systems engineers, to integrate mechanical components with other subsystems.</li><li>Verification: Assist with spacecraft environmental verification processes to ensure designs meet the rigorous standards for spaceflight, including temperature, vibration, and vacuum conditions.</li><li>Vendor &amp; Supplier Interaction: Coordinate with vendors and machine shops to procure parts and ensure timely delivery of high-quality components.</li><li>Thermal &amp; RF Systems: Leverage your expertise in RF, thermal, and power systems to ensure designs meet operational requirements and constraints.</li><li>FMEA &amp; Tolerancing: Conduct tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure that all parts function properly under operational conditions.</li></ul>Required Qualifications<ul><li>Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (Master’s degree preferred).</li><li>8+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis, with a focus on spacecraft systems or related fields.</li><li>Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD software for 3D modeling, design, and analysis.</li><li>Experience in creating manufacturing drawings with GD&amp;T knowledge.</li><li>Strong understanding of tolerancing principles and stack-up analysis to ensure functional designs.</li><li>In-depth knowledge of RF, thermal, and power systems and their integration into spacecraft.</li><li>Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.</li></ul>Desired Qualifications<ul><li>Experience with spacecraft design and development, specifically related to mechanical subsystems.</li><li>Experience with spacecraft environmental verification (vibration, thermal testing, vacuum).</li><li>Proven track record of interacting with vendors and machine shops for parts procurement.</li><li>Experience with electronic packaging, including harness routing and layout design.</li><li>Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems for managing engineering data.</li><li>Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using SolidWorks Simulation or similar software tools.</li><li>Familiarity with NASA and MIL-STD processes, particularly related to handling flight hardware.</li><li>Active Security Clearance is preferred.</li><li>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. Learn more about ITAR <a href="https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&amp;d=DwMFog&amp;c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&amp;r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&amp;m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&amp;s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&amp;e=">here</a>. </li></ul>Compensation The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $120,000 - $150,000. 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:<ul><li>We provide extensive medical coverage, including strong vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options.</li><li>Paid Flexible Time Off Policy</li><li>401(k) Plan with Company Match to help you invest in your long-term retirement goals</li><li>Parental Leave program</li><li>Lifestyle Spending Account</li><li>Commuter &amp; Parking Benefits</li><li>Mental Health Resources</li><li>Monthly Phone Stipend</li><li>Furry friends? We’ve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment &amp; them with pet insurance options </li></ul>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 <a href="mailto:recruiting@capellaspace.com">recruiting@capellaspace.com</a> To learn more about us, explore our site: <a href="https://www.capellaspace.com/">https://www.capellaspace.com/</a>  and follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/capellaspace">X</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/capella-space">LinkedIn</a> to see our SAR imagery!

Capella is the first US commercial provider of very high resolution SAR data. Our mission is to make timely Earth observation an essential tool for commerce, conservation, and well-being. A world that shares a richer understanding of life on our planet will be a better place to live; we contribute to that knowledge by documenting change across the globe in entirely new and powerful ways.&nbsp;

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Clearance preferred)

About Capella SpaceCapella 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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/90849109/most-innovative-companies-space-2023">Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://ionq.com/news/ionq-awarded-prestigious-recognitions-by-forbes-investors-business-daily-and">lists</a>.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.The Mechanical Engineering team is responsible for designing and building the spacecrafts, prototypes, and fixtures at Capella. We are responsible for the full design life cycling starting from: requirement definition, concept development, analysis to validate design, drawings for production, assembling prototypes and flight articles, all the way to supporting verification testing.&nbsp; Team members will get to perform a variety of exciting tasks throughout the life cycle of the project.As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be supporting the design of a major subsystem. Your focus will be satellite design, but you will also be leaned upon to help out cross functionally across different departments including improving and scaling production. Design work will vary anywhere from ground support fixturing, to electronic sub assembly packaging, to full satellite layout. Good communication is a must as you will be working with many different teams and vendors to come up with a design that satisfies system level requirements and takes us to the next level.Requirements<ul><li>Design &amp; Analysis:&nbsp;Create 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks for spacecraft mechanical systems, including structural components, thermal systems, and electrical packaging.</li><li>Manufacturing Drawings:&nbsp;Develop detailed manufacturing drawings with a strong understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&amp;T)&nbsp;principles.</li><li>Collaboration:&nbsp;Work closely with internal teams, including electrical and systems engineers, to integrate mechanical components with other subsystems.</li><li>Verification:&nbsp;Assist with spacecraft environmental verification processes to ensure designs meet the rigorous standards for spaceflight, including temperature, vibration, and vacuum conditions.</li><li>Vendor &amp; Supplier Interaction:&nbsp;Coordinate with vendors and machine shops to procure parts and ensure timely delivery of high-quality components.</li><li>Thermal &amp; RF Systems:&nbsp;Leverage your expertise in RF, thermal, and power systems&nbsp;to ensure designs meet operational requirements and constraints.</li><li>FMEA &amp; Tolerancing:&nbsp;Conduct tolerance stack-up analysis&nbsp;to ensure that all parts function properly under operational conditions.</li></ul>Required Qualifications<ul><li>Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering (Master’s degree preferred).</li><li>8+ years of professional experience&nbsp;in mechanical design and analysis, with a focus on spacecraft systems or related fields.</li><li>Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD software&nbsp;for 3D modeling, design, and analysis.</li><li>Experience in creating manufacturing drawings&nbsp;with GD&amp;T&nbsp;knowledge.</li><li>Strong understanding of tolerancing&nbsp;principles and stack-up analysis&nbsp;to ensure functional designs.</li><li>In-depth knowledge of RF, thermal, and power systems&nbsp;and their integration into spacecraft.</li><li>Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.</li></ul>Desired Qualifications<ul><li>Experience with spacecraft design&nbsp;and development, specifically related to mechanical subsystems.</li><li>Experience with spacecraft environmental verification&nbsp;(vibration, thermal testing, vacuum).</li><li>Proven track record of interacting with vendors and machine shops&nbsp;for parts procurement.</li><li>Experience with electronic packaging, including harness routing&nbsp;and layout design.</li><li>Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems&nbsp;for managing engineering data.</li><li>Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA)&nbsp;using SolidWorks Simulation&nbsp;or similar software tools.</li><li>Familiarity with NASA&nbsp;and MIL-STD processes, particularly related to handling flight hardware.</li><li>Active Security Clearance&nbsp;is preferred.</li><li>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. Learn more about ITAR&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&amp;d=DwMFog&amp;c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&amp;r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&amp;m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&amp;s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&amp;e=">here</a>.&nbsp;</li></ul>Compensation&nbsp;The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is&nbsp;$120,000 - $150,000.&nbsp;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.&nbsp; Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space. &nbsp; &nbsp;Benefits/Perks&nbsp;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:<ul><li>We provide extensive medical coverage, including strong vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options.</li><li>Paid Flexible Time Off Policy</li><li>401(k) Plan with Company Match to help you invest in your long-term retirement goals</li><li>Parental Leave program</li><li>Lifestyle Spending Account</li><li>Commuter &amp; Parking Benefits</li><li>Mental Health Resources</li><li>Monthly Phone Stipend</li><li>Furry friends? We’ve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment &amp; them with pet insurance options&nbsp;</li></ul>Equal Opportunity Statement&nbsp;Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.&nbsp;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 <a href="mailto:recruiting@capellaspace.com">recruiting@capellaspace.com</a>&nbsp;To learn more about us, explore our site: <a href="https://www.capellaspace.com/">https://www.capellaspace.com/</a>&nbsp; and follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/capellaspace">X</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/capella-space">LinkedIn</a> to see our SAR imagery!&nbsp;

Senior Mechanical Engineer (Clearance preferred)

About the Job

About the Company

Capella Space

Similar Jobs

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer III (Clearance preferred)

Mechanical Engineer III (Clearance preferred)

Senior Electromechanical Engineer

Senior Electromechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Senior Mechanical Engineering Manager

Senior Mechanical Engineering Manager

Senior Mechanisms Engineer

Senior Mechanisms Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer