Staff Satellite Operations Engineer

Staff Satellite Operations EngineerIonQLouisville, CO, USAbout IonQAt IonQ, our mission is to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems, transforming business, society, and the planet for the better.Job DescriptionIonQ, Inc. [NYSE: IONQ] is the world's leading quantum platform and merchant supplier - delivering integrated quantum solutions across computing, networking, sensing, and security. IonQ's newest generation of quantum computers, the IonQ Tempo, is the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems that have been helping customers and partners including Amazon Web Services, and AstraZeneca achieve 20x performance results and accelerate innovation in drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. In 2025, the company achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, setting a world record in quantum computing performance. Headquartered in College Park, Maryland, IonQ has operations in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Washington, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Our quantum computing services are available through all major cloud providers, while we also meet the needs of networking and sensing customers across land, sea, air, and space. IonQ is making quantum platforms more accessible and impactful than ever before.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.Location: This role is based at our Louisville, CO office with the option to work a few days a week remotely. Travel: Up to 5% Job ID: 1569The RoleCapella is looking for a Satellite Operations Engineer to join our close-knit team of spacecraft operators! In this role, you will own the full operational life-cycle: from designing mission operations and executing high-stakes commissioning campaigns, to maintaining fleet health and leading on-orbit anomaly response.As a vital member of our Satellite Operations Team, you will drive the reliability and autonomy of our expanding SAR constellation as well as upcoming special projects and demonstrations. If you thrive on solving complex problems in a fast-paced environment and want to have a direct hand in the success of a growing fleet, we want you at Capella.ResponsibilitiesLead the launch and commissioning of new satellites for autonomous operationsPerform spacecraft analysis, maintenance, and anomaly responseDevelop and automate operational procedures and toolsTest and deploy satellite software updatesSupport the execution of special projects and demonstrationsParticipate in a team rotation to be the on-call first responder for spacecraft anomaliesInterface with other teams to develop and maintain a highly autonomous spacecraft operations systemQualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, or a related technical field4+ years of relevant work experienceProficiency in Python for data analysis and automationFamiliarity with all of the following disciplines and significant experience with at least one:AstrodynamicsGuidance, Navigation, and ControlElectrical EngineeringCommunications SystemsThermal EngineeringEmbedded SoftwarePropulsionExperience with Git or other version control systemsSoft SkillsStrong ability to communicate and collaborate within a team environmentComfortable dealing with unknowns, quantifying risk, addressing uncertainty, and handling the pressure of a real-time operating environmentStrong problem-solving and critical thinking skillsRequired QualificationTo 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 here.CompensationThe approximate base salary range for this position is $167,808 - $219,704. The total compensation package includes base salary, bonus, equity, and a range of benefits available on our career site.Compensation will vary based on individual factors such as education, qualifications, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location, and calibration against relevant market data and internal team equity. Posted base salary figures are subject to change as new market data becomes available. Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, matching 401K, unlimited PTO and paid holidays, parental/adoption leave, legal insurance, and a home technology stipend. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided when a candidate receives an offer of employment.At IonQ, we believe in fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all while striving to identify and eliminate barriers. We empower employees to thrive by fostering a culture of autonomy, productivity, and respect. We are dedicated to creating an environment where individuals can feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. We are committed to equity and justice. We welcome different voices and viewpoints and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Softbank Investment Advisers