Senior Manager, RF Engineering

Location: This role is based at our San Francisco, CA office, with the option to work a few days a week remotely.Travel: Travel is expected between Capella offices and vendor facilities, surge support up to 10% (average 3 days every 2 months).Job ID: 569About CapellaCapella, 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 strengthens 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 to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.What Makes Capella Unique? 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 strengthens 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. No prior space experience is required. 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. Diverse viewpoints strengthen Capella's ability to innovate and to deliver meaningful impact for partners worldwide.About the RoleWe are seeking a Senior RF Manager with strong technical background to lead our small RF team. In this role, you will be responsible for managing and leading the RF team as well as individual contributions. You will provide technical direction of satellite RF system architectures and subsystem design. As an integral part of our engineering team, you will be collaborating cross-functionally with electrical, software, thermal, mechanical, and spacecraft operations teams.Role ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the RF teamOwn the RF design processImplement and improve PCBA processLead detailed RF system modeling & EM simulation effortsDevelop system level budgets, maintaining technical oversight of system performance throughout product lifecycleDirect and conduct RF system architecture trade studiesHigh-level direction of design validation & qualification campaignsAct as subject matter expert in new program proposal developmentManage the development of outsourced components and interface with external vendorsProvide guidance and mentorship for junior engineersQualifications BSEE/Physics + 10 years related experience, or MSEE/Physics + 8 years related experienceExperience developing RF system/payload budgets to assess margin to performance requirementsExpert knowledge of EM simulation tools for waveguide, antenna, and/or planar component design (MWO, ADS, HFSS)Expert knowledge in at least two of the following areas:Space-based antenna systems (single- and multi-aperture, passive and active)Space-based high-power PA designSatellite communications transponder system designSoftware defined radios and digital signal processingUltra-stable oscillator / frequency synthesizer designExpert knowledge of RF test & measurement methodsDeep hands-on experience working with and troubleshooting RF circuits and/or systemsFamiliarity with spacecraft architectures and cross-functional engineering stakeholdersExperience leading teams and mentoring junior engineersExceptional communication and presentation skillsPreferred QualificationsProficiency with RF/communication system design tools (VSS, SystemVue, MATLAB)Familiarity with microwave component assembly and packaging techniquesKnowledge of wireless communications standards, protocols, and link analysisPast experience with multilayer mixed signal PCB design (Altium preferred)Proficiency in data analysis and signal processing tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)3D CAD modeling experienceSecurity clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance preferredCompensationThe annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $216,136 - $254,415. 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.Benefits/PerksIn 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.Stock option grants for new hires 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goalsGenerous 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 optionsEqual Opportunity StatementCapella 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 recruiting@capellaspace.comTo learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!