Quality Engineer

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.

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Role Responsibilities

Develop and enforce quality requirements for spacecraft structural assemblies, subassemblies, including propulsion systems, and components.

Lead, facilitate, investigate nonconformances, with root cause corrective action (RCCA) methodologies (such as 8D, DMAIC, and other structured problem-solving methods). Analysis of NCRs, trends, supplier projects, internal processes.

Provide real-time quality support on the manufacturing floor, including developing inspection test procedures, acceptance test procedures (ATP) and overseeing environmental testing quality compliance (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC).

Develop in-process inspection criteria, First Article Inspection plans, and final product acceptance protocols.

Develop, manage, and support MRB (Material Review Board) dispositions and oversee rework/ repair activities.

Implement incoming inspection process for critical hardware and review supplier quality escape reports.

Collaborate with Systems Engineering to verify that critical-to-quality (CTQ) features are flowed down and verified at build stages.

Support internal and external audits, including customer and certification audits.

Manage supplier quality assurance activities for aerospace parts and assemblies.

Support manufacturing readiness activities including PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and Control Plans.

Maintain calibration, gaging, and special process control systems in compliance with aerospace standards.

Train operators and inspectors on inspection methods, specifications, and quality requirements.

Ensure compliance with contractual quality requirements, ITAR regulations, and ISO/ AS9100 standards.

Support failure investigations and anomaly resolutions for hardware issues.

Familiar with tracking and reporting supplier performance metrics (OTD, PPM, NCR rates).

Maintain strict configuration management and traceability of materials, processes, and documentation per standards.

Review engineering drawings, specifications, and process plans to ensure quality requirements are defined and met.

Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to develop robust process controls and inspection plans.

Support design for manufacturability and producibility reviews to ensure quality is built into critical spaceflight hardware.

Monitor and control special processes (e.g. bonding, welding, soldering) critical to spaceflight qualification.

Support design reviews, test readiness reviews, and customer acceptance milestones.

Conduct supplier audits, PPAP reviews, First Article Inspections (FAIs) per AS9102 standards.

Qualifications

B.S. or higher in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Systems, or Industrial)

8+ years of experience in a regulated industry (aerospace, robotics, medical device, automotive, or equivalent)

ASQ certifications are a plus

Experience with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $104,000 - $140,000. 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 Stipend

Daily 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

To learn more about us, explore our site: and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!