Staff Threat Intelligence Researcher

About Capella Space

Capella Space is a pioneer in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite technology and space-based signal intelligence. We empower government, commercial, and research organizations around the world with high-resolution, timely Earth insights that drive better decisions - across defense and intelligence, disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, environmental protection, energy, and more.

As a U.S.-based company, Capella designs, builds, and operates an advanced constellation of commercial SAR satellites in orbit today. Our satellites are backed by a fully automated tasking, collection, and delivery platform, delivering fast, reliable insights when and where our customers need them most. As a subsidiary of IonQ, a global leader in quantum computing, Capella is charting the future of Earth observation. Together, we’re on a mission to bring quantum computing to space - unlocking ultra-secure, encrypted uplink and downlink capabilities, reducing latency, and enabling powerful on-orbit analytics. This visionary integration of advanced remote sensing and quantum technology will support customers with the highest level of data fidelity, security, and speed.

Capella was named one of Fast Company’s 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space in 2023 and is a trusted partner of the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, NASA, the National Reconnaissance Office, and allied government agencies worldwide. Built In recognized IonQ on three of its 2025 Best Places to Work lists.

What Makes Capella Unique?

At Capella, we don’t just imagine what’s possible - we build it. We’re a mission-driven team fueled by curiosity, grit, and a shared commitment to redefining the limits of space innovation. Our environment is fast paced, rooted in humble collaboration. Every team member plays a critical role in shaping the future of our technology and our industry. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help solve problems that others call impossible—we're the place for you. We believe great ideas can come from anywhere, and we thrive on diverse perspectives that help us move faster, think deeper, and push the boundaries of innovation. Whether you're new to the space industry or a seasoned expert, you'll find a team that values creativity, integrity, and bold thinking. Join us as we build the future of SAR—and take quantum to space.

About the Role 

We are seeking a Threat Intelligence Researcher to lead advanced research initiatives at the intersection of cyber threat intelligence and cybersecurity systems. This role requires a seasoned expert who can independently drive threat research, uncover adversary behavior, and influence the design and protection of critical systems at scale. 

As our engineer, you will be responsible for developing deep insights into the tools, tactics, and procedures (TTPs) of advanced threat actors. You will apply this knowledge to guide security architecture, influence product and platform defenses, and deliver strategic and tactical intelligence to stakeholders across the organization. Your work will play a critical role in shaping proactive defense strategies, improving detection and response capabilities, and enhancing the company’s threat intelligence posture. 

Role Responsibilities

• Lead and execute complex research initiatives focused on cyber adversaries targeting enterprise and cloud-based security systems. 
• Analyze adversary TTPs and campaign infrastructure to inform threat detection and defensive system design. 
• Produce high-impact technical reports, threat assessments, and executive briefings on strategic and emerging threats. 
• Collaborate with engineering, security operations, and product teams to embed threat intelligence into security tooling and workflows. 
• Guide intelligence collection priorities and analytic methodologies aligned to the most pressing threats. 
• Develop frameworks and models for tracking threat actor behaviors and correlating telemetry data across systems. 
• Represent the organization in threat sharing communities and contribute to public-facing research where appropriate. 
• Mentor junior analysts and researchers and contribute to team-wide knowledge development and analytic rigor. 

Qualifications 

• 12+ years of experience in threat intelligence, cyber operations, or advanced security research. 
• Proven expertise in identifying, tracking, and analyzing sophisticated threat actors and campaigns. 
• Strong understanding of adversary tactics across the MITRE ATT&CK framework, kill chain models, and intrusion analysis. 
• Experience with large-scale data analysis, malware reverse engineering, and network forensics. 
• Proficiency in scripting and data manipulation languages (e.g., Python, SQL) for threat analysis workflows. 
• Deep familiarity with security technologies and telemetry sources (e.g., EDR, SIEM, NDR, IDS/IPS). 
• Ability to synthesize technical findings into actionable intelligence for diverse audiences. 
• Exceptional writing, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills. 
• Advanced degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Intelligence Studies, or a related field. 
• Prior experience influencing security architecture, detection engineering, or security product development. 
• Active involvement in the security research community or contributions to public threat intelligence reports. 
• Understanding of nation-state threat actor motivations, geopolitical drivers, and APT group behaviors. 
• Experience with threat intelligence platforms (TIPs) and threat hunting tools. 
• 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 here.

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $156,900.00 - $207,900. 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 [email protected] 

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