Job Details

Senior Hardware Test Automation Engineer

Capella Space is a pioneer in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. We empower government, commercial, and research organizations worldwide with high‑resolution Earth insights, driving better decisions across defense, disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, and more. As a U.S.‑based company and a subsidiary of IonQ, we are on a mission to bring quantum computing to space and provide ultra‑secure, high‑fidelity data to a wide spectrum of customers.

As a Senior Hardware Test Automation Engineer on the Space Systems Development Test Engineering team, you will develop automated test capabilities and execute verification and validation campaigns on spacecraft hardware. You will work closely with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to drive integrated test development and execution across every satellite subsystem, enabling rapid, repeatable, and reliable testing of hardware at scale.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain automated test capabilities (primarily in Python) to control lab equipment, run procedures, and verify hardware behavior.
• Create reusable frameworks and libraries for test automation across multiple hardware subsystems.
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to design test cases that capture functional requirements, corner cases, and fault conditions.
• Execute hardware test campaigns, analyze results, and identify root causes of anomalies.
• Interface with flight software and ground software teams to ensure cohesive test interfaces.
• Document test procedures, results, and configurations for traceability and reproducibility.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of test infrastructure, tools, and processes.

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a similar role.
• Bachelor's degree in electrical/computer engineering, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proficiency with hands‑on hardware testing of electrical or mechanical systems, subsystems, or components.
• Proficiency in Python for test scripting and automation.
• Familiarity with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, spectrum/network analyzers, and control interfaces (GPIB, Ethernet, USB).
• Strong problem‑solving and debugging skills in a hardware‑centric environment.
• Ability to work hands‑on with test setups, cabling, and instrumentation.
• Compliance with U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR) – U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience testing aerospace or other high‑reliability hardware systems.
• Knowledge of Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HIL) testing methodologies.
• Knowledge of embedded systems interfaces and protocols (UART, SPI, I²C, CAN, SpaceWire, etc.).
• Experience with continuous integration systems and automated test execution pipelines (GitLab preferred).
• Familiarity with data analysis libraries (NumPy, pandas, matplotlib) for test result processing.
• Familiarity with data visualization or graphical interface libraries (Matplotlib, Plotly, PyQt, Grafana).
• Strong documentation and communication skills, with an emphasis on reproducibility and rigor.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this role is $137,750.41 – $172,188.00. The final salary will be determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and market data. Benefits may vary based on the specific employment arrangement.

Benefits/Perks

• Extensive medical coverage, including vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and supplemental health options.
• Paid flexible time‑off policy.
• 401(k) plan.
• Parental leave program.
• Lifestyle spending account.
• Commuter and parking benefits.
• Mental health resources.
• Monthly phone stipend.
• Pet‑friendly work environment 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. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, veterans, and those with disabilities to apply. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process, please contact ...@capellaspace.com.