Legal Counsel – Technology & Trade Compliance

Kepler Communications; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space technology firm in Toronto is seeking a legal professional to provide expertise in technology transactions and compliance. The role involves supporting contracts, government proposals, and trade compliance in a fast-paced environment. Ideal candidates will have a JD or LLB, 5+ years of relevant experience, and strong negotiation skills. Join us to contribute to groundbreaking space projects.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Unlimited vacation

Annual professional development fund

Relocation packages available

Events and team activities

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in related legal/compliance functions.
• Ability to articulate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience drafting and negotiating a range of contracts.

Responsibilities

• Draft, negotiate, and review technology contracts.
• Provide legal support for government contracts and proposals.
• Manage compliance programs for export control laws.

Skills

Cross-border technology transfer

Negotiation

Strong communication

Integrity

Education

JD or LLB degree

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 ofwhat’spossible 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 compensationwith 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 partiesand frequent in-office team events.

- Relocation packagesavailable for approved roles.

- $1,500 annual professional development fundto support your growth.

- Fully stocked Toronto office kitchenwith snacks, drinks, games and top-notch kitchen appliances.

- Town Halls, Celebration Calls, and Company-wide eventsto stay connected and engaged.

- We’re a certifiedGreat Place to Work, four years in a row!

This isn’t your typical legal position. At Kepler, you’ll be embedded in a fast-moving team, helping to shape how we operate globally by balancing legal precision with bold innovation. You’ll provide hands-on legal expertise across technology transactions, government contracts, and international trade compliance, all while supporting cutting-edge space technology projects.

As we push the boundaries of space-based connectivity, your work will ensure Kepler remains not only compliant but competitive in a highly regulated and technically complex landscape. Your decisions will directly influence how we launch, partner, build, and operate globally.

Key Responsibilities:

• Please note: This role is an on-site position at our Toronto HQ

Technology & Commercial Contracting

• Draft, negotiate, and review a wide variety of commercial and technology contracts, including NDAs, software licenses, supplier/vendor agreements, and customer agreements
• Support Kepler’s intellectual property strategy development
• Serve as the legal point of contact for engineering, project management, business development, regulatory, and supply chain teams for contracting and operational legal issues

Government Contracting & Proposals

• Support negotiations and compliance for government contracts and funding agreements in Canada (ISED, CSA), the United States (NASA, SDA), and Europe (ESA)
• Review and advise on flow down requirements, IP provisions, export controls, and other government terms
• Provide legal support on RFP responses, grant applications, and strategic proposals, working closely with business development and program teams

Trade Compliance

• Develop, implement, and manage trade compliance programs in accordance with Canadian and international export control laws (e.g., CGP, ITAR, EAR)
• Advise on the classification of goods, software, and technologies for export and import purposes
• Prepare and submit export/import permit applications and license requests (Global Affairs Canada, DDTC, BIS, etc.)
• Conduct compliance risk assessments and implement controls to address findings
• Lead internal audits and respond to government inquiries, inspections, or investigations

Legal Advisory

• Provide strategic legal counsel to internal teams on matters involving international trade, foreign investment regulations (e.g., Investment Canada Act), and sanctions regimes
• Negotiate and review contracts with compliance obligations
• Monitor and interpret regulatory changes affecting Kepler’s business
• Advise on legal matters across a broad range of corporate initiatives, coordinating with external counsel as needed
• Support Kepler’s internal compliance programs, including those related to privacy, data governance, and information security

Controlled Goods Program (CGP)

• Serve as Kepler’s Designated Official (DO) under the CGP
• Manage employee screenings, training, and security plans required under the CGP framework
• Ensure secure handling, storage, and access protocols for controlled goods
• Maintain up-to-date records and documentation for audits and inspections

Training & Policy Development

• Develop and deliver training to internal stakeholders on export compliance, CGP responsibilities, and related policies
• Draft and maintain internal procedures, manuals, and compliance protocols
• Contribute to team knowledge-sharing and build scalable legal operations and document templates

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• JD or LLB degree with license to practice law in Ontario (or eligibility to be licensed)
• 5+ years of relevant experience in related legal / compliance functions
• Strong understanding of cross-border technology transfer and global supply chain risks
• Exceptional judgment and integrity
• Strong negotiator and communicator, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to diverse audiences and effectively engage with stakeholders at various levels
• Willingness to work on projects of all types and resourcefulness to bring legal expertise on a variety of topics
• Demonstrated ability to independently draft and negotiate a range of commercial and technology contracts

Bonus Points:

• Expertise in export controls and international trade law
• Demonstrated expertise in Canadian CGP and U.S. ITAR/EAR frameworks
• Experience acting as a Designated Official under the CGP or equivalent role
• Experience in the aerospace, satellite, or defense industry
• Familiarity with OFAC sanctions, dual-use technology, and international treaties
• Privacy and data protection experience
• Bilingual (English/French) is an asset
• Security clearance or eligibility to obtain one

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.