Trade Compliance Officer

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 Trade Compliance Officer to support and manage trade compliance activities in trade-regulated environment. This role will report to the Director of Trade and Export Control and will ensure our business adheres to U.S. export control laws and regulations, including ITAR, EAR, and other applicable trade compliance requirements. You will partner closely with internal teams—including Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and Legal—to ensure compliant import/export activities, licensing, and documentation while enabling business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a subject matter expert for trade laws, regulations, policies and procedures including but not limited to:  ITAR, EAR, OFAC and Customs regulations.
• Determine export/import license requirements and submit license applications as needed for the Department of State, Department of Commerce, and Office of Foreign Asset Controls
• Ensure compliance with approved U.S. export authorizations
• Review and assist in determining jurisdiction and classification of products, technology, and software for export control purposes
• Manage and maintain compliance records, reporting, and audit readiness.
• Develop, implement, and enforce policies and procedures
• Develop and administer trade compliance training
• Assist in internal audits and assessments to identify risks and recommend corrective actions.
• Partner with functional areas (People team, IT, Security, Contracts & Supply Chain) to ensure import/export transactions are properly screened, documented, and executed in compliance with regulations.
• Draft and manage Technology Control Plans for Foreign Person Employees
• Work with functional areas (People team, IT, Security, Contracts & Supply Chain to manage deemed exports (foreign visitors, foreign employees & contractors)
• Review and approve international travel requests
• Review documentation for export releasability
• Draft Commercial Invoices and prepare Customs documentation
• Conduct due diligence screening of customers, vendors and other third parties against restricted party lists.
• Act as a liaison with U.S. government agencies (DDTC, BIS, Customs,) as needed.

Qualifications 

• Monitor regulatory updates and advise stakeholders on their impact to business operations.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, International Relations, Law, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in trade compliance, with strong knowledge of ITAR and EAR.
• Experience with export classifications (USML, ECCN, HTS) for a range of products, including both off-the-shelf and custom-built items, and licensing processes (SNAP-R and DECCS)
• Experience with offshore production/manufacturing abroad
• Familiarity with compliance software/tools for screenings and documentation.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with both peers, supervisor, program management teams and senior leadership.
• Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines and responding to requests on short notice.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other ITAR-regulated industries strongly preferred.
• 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 $107,364 - $142,257 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 
• 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!