Senior Staff RF Test Engineer

About IonQ: IonQ, 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. About Capella 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 onsite at our office in Louisville, CO Travel: Up to 5% Job ID: 1598 The Role 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. 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 Qualifications 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 Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and operations Experience operating in a contamination- and ESD-sensitive environment Experience testing high-power RF electronics Required Qualification 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 here. Compensation The approximate base salary range for this position is $192,979 - $252,659. 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. US Technical Jobs. The position you are applying for will require access to technology that is subject to U.S. export control and government contract restrictions. Employment with IonQ is contingent on either verifying “U.S. Person” (e.g., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum) status for export controls and government contracts work, obtaining any necessary license, and/or confirming the availability of a license exception under U.S. export controls. Please note that in the absence of confirming you are a U.S. Person for export control and government contracts work purposes, IonQ may choose not to apply for a license or decline to use a license exception (if available) for you to access export-controlled technology that may require authorization, and similarly, you may not qualify for government contracts work that requires U.S. Persons, and IonQ may decline to proceed with your application on those bases alone. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. US Non-Technical Jobs. Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Accordingly, we will have some additional questions regarding your immigration status that will be used for export control and compliance purposes, and the answers will be reviewed by compliance personnel to ensure compliance with federal law. If you are interested in being a part of our team and mission, we encourage you to apply!