Embedded Software Designer

Rocket Lab; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in space communications seeks an Embedded Software Designer to develop and maintain software for their spacecraft. This role entails collaborating with various teams and ensuring high-quality software for embedded systems within the aerospace sector. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in software development, particularly in embedded systems using technologies such as C/C++, Embedded Linux, and relevant communication protocols.

Benefits

Competitive compensation with equity plan

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Unlimited vacation and supportive parental leave

Relocation packages available for approved roles

$1,500 annual professional development fund

Fully stocked office kitchen

Semi-annual company-wide parties

Great Place to Work certification

Qualifications

• 5+ years of embedded software development experience.
• Strong skills in algorithms, testing, and debugging.
• Experience with firmware and drivers, especially in aerospace.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop reliable software for satellites and ground systems.
• Participate in software design and code reviews.
• Provide technical leadership to junior engineers.

Skills

Software design and development

C/C++ proficiency

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Tools

Embedded Linux

OpenEmbedded/Yocto

FreeRTOS

git

Job description

At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of connectivity - we're leading it!

Our mission is to provide real-time Internet access in space, enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and innovation. With 23 satellites already launched and a next-generation optical network on the way, we’re creating the infrastructure that will power the space economy for decades to come.

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!

What We Offer:

- 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, four years in a row!

We're on the hunt for a top-tier Embedded Software Designer. Your focus will be on software development and maintenance required for both space and ground-based assets for a growing fleet of spacecraft. You'll be relied upon for input and decisions that will directly impact design and operation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop reliable, high-quality software related to:
• On board software for our next generation of satellites
• Embedded Linux for both space and ground systems
• Firmware and driversIoT modules
• Writing thorough tests and documentation
• Participating in software design review and code review processes
• Work with electrical, digital design, and operations teams to identify required features and solidify the system architecture
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers
• Identify shortcomings in existing software components and direct future development efforts

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 5+ years of embedded software development experience
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent
• Strong software design and development skills, including algorithms, testing and debugging
• Proficiency in C/C++, especially in embedded topics such as interrupt handlers, concurrency, memory mapped peripherals, and hardware interfaces (SPI, I2C, CAN)
• Experience with embedded operating systems and build systems, including OpenEmbedded/Yocto and FreeRTOS
• Embedded Linux experience including writing kernel modules, device trees, and drivers
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to effectively use git

Bonus Points:

• Master's degree
• Python development experience
• Experience developing software for aerospace applications
• Experience developing multi-stage bootloaders
• Strong knowledge of computer networking and modern networking protocols
• Experience with RTL (Verilog and/or VHDL) and embedded SoCs
• Hardware debugging experience (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, etc.)
• Experience with ARM assembly

Use of AI in Recruitment

At Kepler Communications, all hiring decisions are made by people. Human recruiters are involved in every step of our recruitment process. We use AI-based tools (such as Lever AI and HireEZ) to assist with the initial review of applications by ranking candidates based on job-relevant criteria. These tools support - but do not replace - human judgment.

Employment Equity & Accommodation Statement

Kepler 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 at [e-mail], and we will work with you to meet your needs.