Chief Information and Security Officer

Capella Space stands at the forefront of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) Earth observation intelligence and advanced satellite technologies. 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

The Chief Information and Security Officer (CISO) for Capella Space is a key position within Capella's executive leadership team, focused on overall security posture and the information technology roadmap. Responsibilities span between internal and customer facing platforms, often interfacing with customers and government officials on behalf of Capella.

Role Responsibilities

Security

• Implement and maintain an information security governance framework and oversee the development and implementation of related practices and procedures. 
• Oversee the structure of corporate information storage and the related application of security permission groups. 
• Oversee information system security operations, including monitoring, detection, and response to security threats and vulnerabilities.
• Manage threat intelligence and vulnerability management processes. 
• Successfully implement CMMC NIST 800-171 by FY25. 
• Provide technical expertise to assist legal personnel in defining compliance with respect to relevant regulations and contractual obligations (e.g., NIST 800-53, DFARS).

Information Technology

• Strategy & Vision: Develop and execute a comprehensive technology strategy that aligns with the company's mission. 
• IT Leadership: Oversee the daily operations of the IT team, ensuring that all systems are secure, reliable, and scalable.
• Business Applications: Review and help drive implementation of world class business systems, including technologies specific to Finance, Accounting and Manufacturing.
• Business Intelligence: Leveraging existing Capella technology, expand the scope of the BI platform to include business related key performance indicators and predictive analytics. 
• Team Building & Development: Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-performing IT team, including recruiting top talent, developing their skills, and helping them advance in their careers.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources. 
• Vendor & Contract Management: Manage relationships with external technology vendors and service providers, ensuring that they deliver high-quality products and services. 
• Business Continuity: Ensure business continuity by overseeing routine backups, conducting timely equipment and software updates, and providing adequate training for staff. You will be responsible for mitigating risks related to technology and systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of senior leadership experience spanning commercial and/or defense/classified environments, preferably in the defense, aerospace or technology security sector.
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering or related field. Industry certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CRISC or equivalent. 
• Manufacturing / Operations Expertise: Understanding of Bill of Materials (BOM), Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Resource Planning, etc. to help scale Capella’s manufacturing capabilities.
• Technical Expertise: Deep expertise in cybersecurity frameworks and architectures (Zero Trust, cloud security, DevSecOps etc.), secure agile/DevOps environments, and CI/CD processes. Extensive knowledge of security technologies (SIEM, SOAR, EDR, firewalls, IAM, DLP etc.). 
• Leadership and Management Ability: Understand core business drivers and effectively communicate security's value and priorities. Strong track record in facilitating enterprise-wide strategic planning and roadmap development and implementing scaled agile methodologies to lead business-aligned security programs.
• Active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility is 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 base salary range for this role as it is posted is $220,000 - $291,500. 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 offer up to 100% paid medical coverage, with robust vision and dental plans, comprehensive flexible spending accounts, and supplemental health plans

• Equity
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement planning
• Generous Parental Leave
• Flexible Paid Time Off Policy
• 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!