INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Flight Software Intern

CompanyCapella Space
LocationSan Francisco
Work ModeOn Site
PostedDecember 12, 2025
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Interns will assist in writing the software that runs the satellite fleet and collaborate with various engineers to develop and maintain spacecraft software. Responsibilities include designing, developing, and troubleshooting flight software.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
268
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Capella builds trusted space systems that deliver secure, rapid, and actionable Earth intelligence to Amplify Intelligence™ for our allied partners. Powered by IonQ, we're creating the world’s first quantum-enabled Earth observation network, transforming how intelligence is delivered through innovation, speed, and trust. As the first U.S. company to launch and operate a commercial SAR constellation, Capella continues to redefine what’s possible in space-based intelligence. Our taskable Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites capture precise, high-resolution imagery in any condition, day or night, through clouds, smoke, or darkness, providing mission-ready insights when and where they’re needed most. We design for the realities of modern defense and intelligence: speed, sovereignty, and resilience. Capella delivers reliable, low-latency data that gives governments and global partners a decisive edge. Our vertically integrated manufacturing and automated tasking platform set the standard for trusted, low-latency SAR operations, enabling faster decisions and stronger deterrence across ISR and national security missions. Together with IonQ, we’re building toward a quantum-enabled constellation that empowers allies to see, decide, and act with confidence in any environment.
About the Role
<p><strong>About Capella Space</strong></p> <p>Capella, an IonQ company, builds trusted space systems that deliver secure, rapid, and actionable Earth intelligence to amplify decision-making for allied partners. As the first U.S. company to launch and operate a commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation, Capella provides precise, high-resolution radar imagery in any condition—day or night, through clouds, smoke, and darkness. Capella is defining the future of space-based intelligence through a vertically integrated approach that spans spacecraft design, advanced radar payloads, manufacturing, automated tasking, and low-latency delivery of mission-ready data. Capella designs for the realities of modern defense and intelligence: speed, sovereignty, and resilience. Powered by IonQ, Capella is creating the world’s first quantum-enabled Earth observation network—transforming how intelligence is delivered through innovation, speed, and trust. This next-generation architecture will provide governments and global partners with a decisive edge: the ability to see, decide, and act with confidence in any environment.</p> <p><strong>What Makes Capella Unique?</strong></p> <p>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. 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.</p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Capella Space Internship Program&nbsp;</span></strong><span data-contrast="auto">&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p>Capella's 10-week, in-person internship program (<strong>June 8–August 14, 2026</strong>) gives students hands-on experience in spacecraft development, operations, and geospatial technology. Interns work directly on meaningful projects while building technical skills, industry insight, and professional connections. The program includes mentorship, team engagement, and social events that support a balanced and collaborative experience. A stipend is provided to help with living expenses.</p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">About the Role and Team</span></span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">As an intern on the Flight Software team, you will </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">assist</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing"> in writing the software that runs our satellite fleet in space! You will interact daily with other software engineers, FPGA developers, electrical engineers, and various other subsystem owners to develop, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">maintain</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="No Spacing">, and implement new features for the spacecraft software.&nbsp;</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">&nbsp;</span><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Role</span></strong> <strong><span data-contrast="auto">Responsibilities</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Design, develop, and maintain flight software for satellite systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Collaborate with EE, FPGA, and ground software engineers&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Write and maintain unit and integration tests&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Troubleshoot and resolve software issues&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> </ul> <p><span data-contrast="auto">&nbsp;</span><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Qualifications</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Currently pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science or a related field </span><span data-contrast="none">and available to work full time for 10 weeks outside of&nbsp; the university academic term.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">In their penultimate academic year or returning to a degree program after completion of the internship.</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Experience developing embedded software, both hardware and software for low-level drivers&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Familiarity with embedded Linux, Linux kernel modules, and standard Linux tools.&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Strong knowledge of programming compiled (C, C++) and scripted (Python, shell script, etc.) languages.&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Good communication skills and strong team collaboration skills&nbsp;</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> <li>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&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&amp;d=DwMFog&amp;c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&amp;r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&amp;m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&amp;s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&amp;e="><span class="s1">here</span></a>.</li> </ul> <p><strong><span data-contrast="none">Compensation</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:300}">&nbsp;</span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="x_msonormal">This internship will be a 40-hour a week commitment at the pay of $39<strong>&nbsp;</strong>per hour. An allowance </span></span><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-parastyle="x_msonormal">will also be provided to support living costs throughout the program.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}">&nbsp;</span></li> </ul> <p><strong><span data-contrast="none">Equal Opportunity Statement</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Capella, an IonQ company is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">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 </span><a href="mailto:recruiting@capellaspace.com"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">recruiting@capellaspace.com</span></span></a><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span data-contrast="none">To learn more about us, explore our site: </span><a href="https://www.capellaspace.com/"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">https://www.capellaspace.com/</span></span></a><span data-contrast="none">&nbsp;</span> <span data-contrast="none">and follow us on </span><a href="https://twitter.com/capellaspace"><strong><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">X</span></span></strong></a><strong><span data-contrast="none"> and </span></strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/capella-space"><strong><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">LinkedIn</span></span></strong></a><strong> </strong><span data-contrast="none">to see our SAR imagery!</span><span data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:1,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:257}">&nbsp;</span></p>
Key Skills
Embedded SoftwareLow-Level DriversEmbedded LinuxLinux Kernel ModulesLinux ToolsCC++PythonShell ScriptCommunication SkillsTeam Collaboration
Categories
TechnologyEngineeringData & AnalyticsGovernment & Public SectorScience & Research
Benefits
Stipend for Living Expenses