Senior Software Engineer Packet Processing (LS400)

Telesat (NASDAQ and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 50 years. Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.

Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.

The company’s state-of-the-art fleet consists of 15 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite. For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Software Engineer with expertise in Packet Processing to join our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in designing and optimizing high-performance network systems, with a strong background in developing scalable, low-latency solutions for data-intensive environments. In this role, you will work on cutting-edge technologies to enhance network protocols and packet processing frameworks. Your contributions will play a key role in delivering robust, reliable, and efficient network operations, ensuring our systems meet the evolving demands of modern infrastructure.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with experienced engineers in the design, coding, testing, and maintenance of software applications.
• Develop and maintain embedded software modules using programming languages like C++ and Python. Design and implement high-performance packet processing applications using DPDK and similar frameworks
• Optimize network functions for maximum throughput and minimal latency
• Develop and maintain packet processing pipelines for various network functions
• Troubleshoot complex performance issues in packet processing applications
• Assist in the implementation of networking solutions, ensuring seamless communication between software components.
• Contribute to the development of software tools, libraries, and frameworks to enhance overall product quality and efficiency.
• Participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to enhance code quality and adherence to coding standards.
• Collaborate with the team to troubleshoot and resolve software defects and technical issues.
• Support the integration of software components on Linux operating systems.
• Assist in the testing and validation of software features, ensuring functionality and performance meet specified requirements.
• Utilize cloud technologies to enhance software deployment and management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product managers and designers, to understand requirements and contribute to technical discussions.
• Maintain clear and organized documentation of software designs, processes, and development tasks.
• Demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills, both orally and in writing. Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced satellite ground segment software systems, ensuring high performance, scalability, and reliability

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of packet processing development
• Experience with Vector Packet Processing (VPP) framework a plus
• Deep understanding of DPDK architecture and APIs
• Familiarity with modern NIC features (RSS, checksum offload, scatter-gather)
• Experience with AF_XDP or similar kernel bypass technologies
• A good understanding of Linux-based network stacks, kernel modules, and performance optimization
• Ideally 8 years' experience in C/C++ for low-level network programming and high-performance packet processing
• Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols. (TCP/IP, UDP, VXLAN, GRE, etc.)
• Cloud technology familiarity is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Team player with the ability to collaborate effectively within a diverse team.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Enthusiasm for learning new technologies and tools.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing high-quality software.
• Ability to design software with consideration for hardware resource constraints.
• SW development in the satellite communication systems is a plus

DECISION MAKING & SUPERVISION:

• This role has no direct reports, but will work and interact with multi-disciplinary engineering teams

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This role offers hybrid work environment
• Working conditions are generally comfortable typical of an office environment
• International travel is required

The successful candidate must be able to work in Canada and obtain both Reliability and Canadian Controlled Goods program (CGP) clearances.

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At Telesat, we take pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values equality in the workplace. We are committed to providing the best candidate experience possible including any required accommodations at every stage of our interview process. All qualified applicants that have been selected for an interview that require accommodations, are advised to inform the Telesat Talent team accordingly. We will work with you to meet your needs. All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential.