Kepler is on an audacious mission to deliver Internet connectivity to space, creating the infrastructure to support the rapidly increasing data needs of the space economy. With 23 satellites launched to date and our optical constellation on the horizon, our ambition is to improve access to space-generated data, whether in LEO, MEO, GEO, or beyond! Kepler is hard at work innovating and continuing to grow and expand our most important asset – the Team!
As the Lead Space Systems Engineer, you will serve as the primary technical authority at the program level, ensuring the successful execution of spacecraft and space system development efforts. You will work closely with Program Managers, Product Assurance Managers, and cross-functional engineering teams to align technical execution with program goals. This role requires a strong systems engineering background, the ability to balance technical rigor with programmatic constraints, and leadership in resolving critical design and operational challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as the principal technical leader for a space program, ensuring the integrity of system design and execution.
- Collaborate closely with Program Managers to balance technical requirements, cost, schedule, and risk.
- Work with Product Assurance Managers to ensure reliability, quality, and mission assurance.
- Lead major technical reviews, system-level trade studies, and risk management activities.
- Lead efforts to identify and implement cost-saving measures without compromising on technical performance or mission objectives.
- Evaluate and integrate new technologies and methodologies to enhance the affordability and capabilities of satellite systems.
- Provide guidance on spacecraft architectures, system design, and technology roadmaps.
- Oversee system integration, test campaigns, and verification planning to ensure mission success.
- Act as the primary interface for resolving complex technical issues across engineering disciplines.
- Support proposal development, feasibility studies, and strategic planning for future missions.
- Mentor engineering teams, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
Customer Interaction:
- Engages with customers and stakeholders at the program level to align technical execution with mission objectives.
- Collaborates closely with program and assurance teams to ensure compliance with mission and contractual requirements.
- Leads technical discussions and decision-making processes to resolve critical challenges.
- Represents the technical team in program management reviews and customer briefings.
Required Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 10+ years of experience in space systems engineering, spacecraft development, or a related leadership role.
- Strong track record of technical leadership in complex space programs.
- Deep expertise in spacecraft architecture, mission design, and systems integration.
- Experience balancing technical execution with cost, schedule, and risk considerations.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to drive technical decision-making.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to interface across technical and programmatic disciplines.
Kepler Communications is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from: Women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, people who identify as LGBTQ+ and others who may contribute to diversification in our workplace.
As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, Kepler will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact our People & Culture team, through our Career Page to make your accommodation needs known and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.
Top Skills
What We Do
Kepler designs, builds, launches, and operates an advanced network of low earth orbit satellites with the ultimate goal of bringing internet to outer space.
Today, Kepler serves the needs of earth by connecting machines all around the world using its satellites on orbit and other complementary networks. Through a host of compatible partner equipment we make it easy to use satellite communications in your solution and route data over the best networks.
