Senior Network Architect

Network ArchitectAt 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.Industry-leading technology is only part of the story. 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!Kepler is seeking a Network Architect to join our Network Engineering team. In this role, you will design, build, and operate our mission-critical networks that support our constellation of satellites and, ultimately, customers of the Kepler Network; ensuring performance, scalability, and reliability. Your secondary responsibility will be to design, build, and operate Kepler's internal corporate networks (on-premises and cloud). The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience with complex networks and will fully embrace software and automation initiatives. This includes driving network automation and programmability while working closely with network architects, software engineers, and FPGA developers to deliver services to our customers.Key Responsibilities:Work with network architects to design, build and operate Kepler's mission-critical networksContribute to the team to design, build. and operate the corporate network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, security appliances, and hybrid cloud connectivityManage network security and segmentation, ensuring infrastructure adheres to security best practices and company policiesDesign and maintain hybrid cloud networking architectures, integrating on-prem environments with AWS servicesDevelop and maintain network automation tools, leveraging Python, Ansible, and infrastructure-as-code approaches to improve reliability and operational efficiencyCollaborate closely with software, FPGA, and mission operations teams to support network infrastructure for satellite operations and ground systemsProvide operational support for corporate and service provider network infrastructure, including participation in on-call rotationsImplement monitoring, logging, and observability tools to proactively detect and resolve network issuesMaintain accurate network documentation, diagrams, and operational runbooksParticipate in change management processes, including planning, implementation, and post-change validationSupport incident response and root cause analysis for network-related outages or performance issuesRequired Skills & Qualifications:Strong foundation in routing and switching concepts (ISIS, MPLS, BGP, GRE, VLAN) at an equivalent level to CCNPHands-on experience deploying and supporting large WAN environmentsHands-on experience designing and operating hybrid cloud networking, including AWS VPCs, TGW routing, VPN connectivity, and secure integration with on-prem networksHands-on experience with software defined network concepts, including:Network Function VirtualizationInfrastructure as CodeCI/CDPython scriptingJinja templatingTerraformJSON/YAML configuration formatsAnsible playbooks and automation workflowsGit version controlBasic Linux networking knowledge including interface configuration, routing tables, firewall rules, and troubleshooting connectivityHands-on experience implementing and managing IPsec VPNs for site-to-site and remote connectivityHands-on experience implementing network monitoring and observability platforms, such as SNMP-based monitoring, NetFlow/sFlow, or telemetry pipelinesHands-on experience managing network infrastructure changes, including structured change management practicesStrong systems-level thinking, with the ability to design integrated network solutions supporting complex distributed systemsStrong problem solving and troubleshooting skills across multiple layers of the network stackStrong documentation practices, including network diagrams, configuration standards, and operational proceduresAbility to work independently and remotely, while maintaining strong collaboration with distributed engineering teamsBonus Points:Expert-level routing and switching experience at an equivalent level to CCIEAdvanced Linux networking expertise, including kernel networking concepts, traffic shaping, and advanced routingHands-on experience with network simulation or emulation platforms, such as EVE-NG, GNS3, or container-based network labsHands-on experience designing complex network architectures, including multi-site or globally distributed networksHands-on experience supporting small to mid-scale data center environments, including switching fabrics and server connectivityHands-on experience working with network controllers or intent-based networking platformsHands-on experience implementing and supporting Fortinet solutions, including SD-WAN configuration, firewall policies, and firmware upgradesHands-on experience supporting satellite communications or space-ground network infrastructureEmployment Equity & Accommodation StatementKepler Communications is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact our People & Culture team, and we will work with you to meet your needs.