Lead GNC Engineer

Kepler Communications Inc.; Toronto; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Kepler Communications Inc. is seeking a Lead GNC Designer / Engineer to define the technical direction of the Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) platform. This role involves leading the development process, ensuring spacecraft performance, and engaging with stakeholders to drive technical initiatives. Candidates should possess extensive aerospace GNC experience and strong leadership skills, with an emphasis on communication and problem-solving capabilities.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of relevant aerospace GNC experience required.
• Experience leading satellite GNC design.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft control and determination.

Responsibilities

• Define GNC architecture and scope capabilities/requirements.
• Lead development of Software in the Loop and Hardware in the Loop frameworks.
• Engage with customers and stakeholders to align technical execution.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Leadership

Autonomous work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in physics, electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

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 a Lead GNC Designer / Engineer, you will be responsible for defining the direction of the technical growth of Kepler’s Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) platform.

You will define the software and hardware architecture of Kepler’s GNC system, aligning mission requirements with its capabilities. You will also drive reviews, be responsible for documentation and interaction with key stakeholders, and adhere to processes that guarantee the success of GNC initiatives.

You will lead and drive multidisciplinary functional groups to maintain exceptional attitude and orbit control performance of Kepler’s spacecraft; ensuring that the GNC platform adheres to key performance metrics and supports payload operations. Lastly, you are expected to interact with key stakeholders including customers and executives to defend your technical decisions and positions associated with the GNC design, reviews, and planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Scope capabilities and requirements for the GNC system
• Define GNC architecture to satisfy project requirements
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to GNC engineers
• Define the direction of technical growth of the GNC system
• Take technical ownership of the development process of the GNC system
• Lead the development of Software in the Loop and Hardware in the Loop frameworks for testing and iteration
• Develop analysis and on-orbit debug capabilities
• Automate on-orbit operation, calibration, and troubleshooting of the GNC system
• Support cross-functional initiatives as a technical authority
• Manage GNC schedule and resources

Customer Interaction and Communication Expectations:

• Engage with customers and stakeholders to align technical execution with mission objectives
• Collaborate with program and assurance teams for compliance
• Lead technical discussions and decision-making to resolve challenges
• Represent the technical team in reviews and briefings

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering
• 8+ years of relevant aerospace GNC experience
• Experience leading satellite GNC design
• Strong understanding of spacecraft control and determination
• Experience with software and hardware in the loop testing
• Knowledge of orbital mechanics and low-earth orbit environment
• Experience with control, orbital maneuvering, sensor filtering, fault management, navigation filtering
• Problem-solving skills with minimal supervision
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomous environment
• Excellent communication skills

Bonus Points:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field

Kepler values diversity and is committed to an inclusive environment. We welcome applications from women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We provide accommodations during the recruitment process upon request.