Component Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) Technician

Capella Space is seeking a Component Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) Technician in Louisville, KY. The role involves hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of spacecraft electronic components. Candidates should have a background in mechanical and electrical hardware builds. The position supports the preparation of flight hardware for spacecraft integration, requiring precision assembly and adherence to detailed work instructions. Capella Space emphasizes collaboration and welcomes diverse applicants.
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.

About the Role & Team
We are seeking highly motivated Component AI&T Technicians to support the hands-on build, integration, and test of spacecraft electronic assemblies and subassemblies. This role is part of the Component Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) team and plays a critical part in preparing flight hardware for final integration into the spacecraft bus.

This position is ideal for individuals with a strong background in both mechanical and electrical hardware builds. You’ll work closely with engineers, senior technicians, and the spacecraft systems team to assemble and validate critical electronic components—ranging from card-stack assemblies and harnessing to complete electronic enclosures.

Role Responsibilities
• Perform precision assembly of electronic and electromechanical subassemblies, including circuit board integration into mechanical structures and enclosures.
• Support the installation and verification of flight electronic assemblies into the spacecraft bus structure.
• Follow detailed work instructions, schematics, and build documentation in coordination with engineering.
• Use appropriate torque tools, hand tools, and ESD-safe equipment during builds.
• Support test setups, functional checks, and troubleshooting of integrated assemblies.
• Maintain rigorous build documentation in the company’s MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and contribute to process improvement efforts.
• Collaborate with quality, systems, and engineering teams to ensure all builds meet performance, reliability, and cleanliness standards
• Provide test support ranging from build/test fixtures, small components, sub-assemblies to entire spacecraft.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent and 2+ years of relevant mechanical/electrical assembly experience in aerospace, electronics, or similar high-reliability fields.
• Demonstrated experience working with circuit boards, electronic enclosures, and subassembly-level integration.
• Familiarity with torque tools, hand tools, ESD handling practices, and build documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to interpret technical drawings and wiring schematics.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with hand tools and small assemblies.
• Familiarity with mechanical/electronic assemblies, cabling, and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to function effectively in a team environment and collaborate across departments.
• Basic math and general computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
• 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.

Desired Qualifications
• Familiarity with MES platforms and electronic documentation practices.
• Familiarity with metrology tools (e.g., Romer Arm, CMM) and their role in component verification.
• Experience in spacecraft, satellite, or avionics manufacturing environments.
• IPC/WHMA-A-620 or NASA Workmanship Standards certification.
• Comfortable working in cleanroom and controlled ESD environments.
• Background in high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Compensation

We are hiring multiple engineers across varying levels of experience. The annual salary range for this role is $63,200 - $99,216. 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 recruiting@capellaspace.com

To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/ and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!