Mechanical Design Engineer

Kepler Communications; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is on a mission to revolutionize space connectivity, and they are seeking a skilled mechanical engineer to join their dynamic team. This role involves developing cutting-edge mechanical solutions for spacecraft and satellite subsystems, utilizing advanced simulation models and CAD tools. You will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure robust designs meet rigorous safety standards. If you are passionate about contributing to the future of space technology and thrive in an R&D environment, this is the perfect opportunity for you to make a significant impact.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant thermal-mechanical design experience.
• Experience in verifying designs through Finite Element Analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical solutions for spacecraft and satellite subsystems.
• Design and evaluate thermal and structural solutions using simulation models.

Skills

Thermal-mechanical design

Finite Element Analysis

CAD tools (Onshape, Creo, SolidWorks)

Heat transfer principles

Design for Manufacturing

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

NX/Simcenter NASTRAN

CAD software

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!

Our mechanical team owns the development of Kepler’s physical systems, including the structural and thermal performance of spaceborne assets. We drive design solutions from concept to production for thermal controls, structures, and mechanisms for Kepler hardware including spacecraft and subsystems.

Responsibilities:

• Develop mechanical solutions for spacecraft and satellite subsystems from initial concept through to flight qualification.
• Design and evaluate thermal and structural solutions using robust simulation models, supported by appropriate analysis tools and calculations.
• Demonstrate and document margins of safety against system requirements (e.g., component temperature limits, vibration, static loading, thermal cycling).
• Create parts and assemblies, leveraging CAD tools to draft mechanical drawings for both production and interface control.
• Work closely with other cross-functional engineering teams (RF, electrical, systems, etc.) to develop full product solutions.
• Define verification methods and success criteria, including plans to mitigate technical risks through both simulation and physical testing.
• Own prototype build and testing to generate design feedback and correlate simulation models.
• Act as peer or lead reviewer, providing technical oversight or subject matter expertise on other active designs.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 5+ years of relevant thermal-mechanical design experience.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, or equivalent.
• Experience in design principles for heat transfer and temperature control.
• Experience in verifying designs through Finite Element Analysis and testing (NX/Simcenter NASTRAN Thermal & Space Systems Thermal preferred).
• Experience with one or more CAD tools (Onshape, Creo, SolidWorks, etc.).
• Understanding of Design for Manufacturing practices.
• Strong communication and documentation skills working in a multidisciplinary team.
• Comfortable in an R&D lab environment.
• Comfortable using basic hand and power tools.

Bonus Points:

• Experience in spacecraft/satellite level thermal analysis and qualification.
• Experience in spacecraft/satellite level structural analysis and qualification.
• Familiarity with ESA ECSS or NASA thermal and structural standards.
• P.Eng. eligibility.

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.