Mechanical Design Engineer

Kepler Communications Inc.; Toronto; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space tech company based in Toronto is looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer to take ownership of mechanical systems for their spacecraft. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in mechanical design, expertise with CAD tools, and a solid understanding of thermal and structural analysis. This role offers competitive compensation, unlimited vacation, and a culture that values diversity and teamwork.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Unlimited vacation

Professional development fund

Company-wide events

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant mechanical design experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, or equivalent.
• Experience verifying designs through Finite Element Analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical solutions for spacecraft and satellite subsystems.
• Design and evaluate thermal and structural solutions.
• Create parts and assemblies using CAD tools.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

Heat transfer knowledge

Communication skills

Use of CAD tools

Testing experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent

Tools

Onshape

Creo

Solidworks

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, five years in a row!

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to own the development of mechanical systems flying on Kepler spacecraft. In this role you will be responsible for the mechanical design and prototyping as well as the structural and thermal analysis of Kepler hardware.

Key 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, as well as associated bills of material.
• 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 test to generate design feedback and correlate simulation models.
• Act as peer reviewer providing technical mentorship to junior members of the team.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 5+ years of relevant mechanical design experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, mechatronics engineering, or equivalent.
• Understanding of design principles for heat transfer, temperature control, statics, and dynamics.
• Experience in verifying designs through Finite Element Analysis and testing.
• Experience with one or more CAD tools (Onshape, Creo, Solidworks, etc.).
• Understanding of design for manufacturing and assembly 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:

• Knowledge and/or experience in design for space applications.
• Experience using Simcenter 3D, Simcenter/NX NASTRAN, Simcenter 3D Space Systems Thermal, etc.
• Experience in spacecraft/satellite level thermal and structural analysis and qualification.
• Familiarity with ESA ECSS or NASA thermal and structural standards.

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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.