Manager, Flight Software Engineering

Manager, Flight Software Engineering

Develop and maintain robust embedded flight software for Capella's satellite constellation

Location: Denver

Compensation: $150,000 - 198,000 USD / year

About The Role

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

As the Software Engineering Manager for Flight Software at Capella, you will lead a team of engineers responsible for developing and maintaining the software that runs Capella's satellite fleet in space. You will oversee a dedicated segment of the existing flight software team, supporting mission‑critical software development and contributing directly to the success of Capella's on‑orbit operations.

This role offers the opportunity to influence technical direction, grow and mentor engineering talent, and drive high standards of execution in a fast‑paced and collaborative environment. You'll work alongside engineers and stakeholders across electrical, FPGA, systems, and ground software teams to deliver robust and reliable spacecraft software.

Role Responsibilities

• Lead a team of flight software engineers responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining embedded software for satellite systems.
• Collaborate with peers and cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless integration between hardware and software components.
• Establish and uphold engineering best practices, including code reviews, automated testing, documentation, and design reviews.
• Mentor engineers through technical challenges, performance feedback, and career development.
• Support architectural discussions, software planning, and trade studies within the team's scope of responsibility.
• Drive consistent and timely execution of project milestones and deliverables.
• Facilitate strong communication across engineering disciplines and ensure software solutions meet mission and system‑level requirements.
• Contribute to hiring, onboarding, and team growth efforts as Capella scales.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Experience managing or leading software engineering teams, particularly within embedded systems or aerospace domains.
• Strong foundation in real‑time embedded systems, including experience with bare‑metal or RTOS environments.
• Proficiency in C and C++ (C++ experience highly preferred); experience with scripting languages such as Python or shell scripting.
• Familiarity with embedded Linux, Linux kernel modules, and development tools.
• Experience with microcontrollers and SoCs (e.g., Xilinx Zynq) and hardware/software integration.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to lead collaboratively and support cross‑functional alignment.
• Working knowledge of modern software development practices including Git, CI/CD, and automated testing.
• Hands‑on experience with lab equipment and debugging hardware is a plus.
• 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.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $150,000 - $198,000. 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 StipendDaily 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 View email address on click.appcast.io.