Satellite Operations Specialist

Role Description

We are looking for a Satellite Operator who can contribute significantly to our growing team. This role involves working with a dedicated team of engineers to build, operate, and manage our satellite constellation. You will play a crucial role in developing and implementing satellite commissioning and standard operating procedures, ensuring the health and optimal performance of our satellites and the Kepler Network as a whole.

• Perform nominal operations to maintain spacecraft health, the Kepler Network and service delivery
• Address and resolve anomalies for rapid service restoration
• Conduct trending and performance analysis of spacecraft platforms and payloads
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operations and processes for enhanced efficiency
• Support launch and commissioning preparations for new spacecraft
• Prepare and execute LEOP and commissioning of future Kepler spacecraft
• Test spacecraft functionality throughout the development process
• Participate in spacecraft conceptual studies and design input, focusing on onboard autonomy and FDIR
• Update and develop tools to automate operational tasks, enhancing efficiency and reliability
• Develop and validate operating procedures for all mission phases
• Triage, support, escalate and resolve internal and customer-raised issues
• Participate in rotating weekly on-call operations (including shiftwork and out-of-hours support) to monitor satellite health and the overall Kepler Network and operations

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field, or relevant experience
• Knowledge of LEO, sun-synchronous orbits, and their implications for satellite operations
• Knowledge of spacecraft command and control systems
• Working knowledge of Python and comfort in a Linux environment
• Experience in spacecraft operation or testing, ideally with responsibility for platform subsystems or instruments
• Aptitude for operating systems with multiple elements and constraints
• Demonstrated strong technical troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated willingness and ability to leverage AI-assisted engineering and development tools to improve productivity, design quality, and innovation while adapting to evolving technologies and best practices
• Basic programming knowledge, with bonus points for skills in Python, or other scripting languages
• Demonstrated attention to detail and organization skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to support operational requirements and a degree of flexibility, including participation in shift work & on call, that may involve evenings, nights, weekends, and other non-standard hours

Benefits

• Competitive compensation with a robust equity plan to share in our success
• Comprehensive coverage for health, dental, and vision insurance—including dependents
• Unlimited vacation, supportive parental leave policy, and company-wide holiday shutdown
• Semi-annual company-wide parties and frequent in-office team events
• Relocation packages available for approved roles
• $1,500 annual professional development fund to support your growth
• Fully stocked Toronto office kitchen with snacks, drinks, games and top-notch kitchen appliances
• Town Halls, Celebration Calls, and Company-wide events to stay connected and engaged
• We’re a certified Great Place to Work®, five years in a row!

Company Description

At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - we're leading it! Our mission is to provide real-time Internet access for space-based assets, enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and innovation. With 33 satellites launched to date, Kepler operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation, enabling real-time, continuous space communications while supporting advanced on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities.

What sets Kepler apart is our team: bold thinkers, skilled builders, and passionate problem-solvers who thrive on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space. We believe great ideas come from diverse perspectives, and we’re committed to creating an environment where you can grow, lead, and make a global impact.

If you’re ready to reach higher, move faster, and do work that shapes the future space economy - this is your launchpad. Come build the future with Kepler!