Satellite Controller

Telesat; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A global satellite operator in Ottawa is seeking a Satellite Controller responsible for monitoring and controlling satellites while ensuring operational excellence. The ideal candidate will hold a 3-year technologist diploma in a relevant field and possess exceptional interpersonal skills. Responsibilities include analyzing telemetry data, executing maneuvers, and rapidly responding to anomalies. This position is crucial for maintaining satellite fleet health and requires a proactive approach to problem-solving in a high-stakes environment.

Qualifications

• Must complete a probationary period while undergoing on-the-job training.
• Excellent interpersonal skills are essential for interfacing with various personnel.
• Ability to quickly respond to satellite anomalies and multiple alarms.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control satellites owned by Telesat.
• Prepare and execute orbit and attitude maneuvers.
• Analyze satellite telemetry data for issues.
• Report and determine responses to all satellite discrepancies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Situational awareness

Time management

Programming skills

Education

3-year technologist diploma in Communications, Electrical, or Electronic Engineering

Tools

Satellite Control systems

Computer operating systems

Job description

Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 55 years. Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.

Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise and Government users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.

The company’s state-of-the-art Satellite fleet consists of 14 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite. For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com

The Satellite Controller will monitor, and control satellites owned by Telesat and those operated on behalf of other communication service providers and perform all scheduled and non-scheduled activities associated with the operation of Telesat operated satellites.

Main Responsibilities

• Perform all scheduled and non-scheduled activities associated with the operation of Telesat operated satellites.
• Assist with all scheduled and non-scheduled activities associated with the maintenance and development of Satellite Ground Control Equipment and Computer Systems.
• Monitor and analyze satellite generated telemetry data for anomalous satellite conditions and take appropriate action as required.
• Prepare, execute and monitor all orbit and attitude maneuvers in accordance with established procedures.
• Ensure accurate preparation and scheduling of maneuvers and other activities as provided by Flight Dynamics and Satellite Engineering.
• Provide validation and deficiency reporting for all Satellite Control system hardware, software and ancillary support equipment.
• Recognize report and determine the correct response to all satellite or ground discrepancies in a timely manner by instituting appropriate satellite emergency procedures and other specified instructions.
• Provide detailed reports and support documentation for all satellite discrepancies, equipment malfunctions, software issues and communications outages.
• Maintain high proficiency in the use of computer operating systems and programs and special use custom designed computer programs and analysis tools utilized in the Satellite Control Centre.

Education and Experience required

• Successful completion of a 3-year technologist diploma in Communications, Electrical, or Electronic Engineering or equivalent.
• Upon acceptance to the SCC the incumbent must undergo a probationary period while undergoing on-the-job training

Specialized Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal skills are essential as the Satellite Controller interfaces extensively with personnel from Satellite Engineering, Flight Dynamics, TTAC Engineering, TCC and similar personnel from customers of Telesat operated spacecraft.
• The ability to remain alert at all hours in an environment where situational awareness and flawless operations are critical to maintaining the health of our satellite fleet.
• Must quickly and accurately respond to all satellite anomalies; be keenly aware of a number of visual and audio alarms.
• There is a continuous requirement to give close attention to printed text, computer screens and information given verbally by co-workers, managers and numerous technical experts who interface with the Satellite Control Centre on a daily basis.
• Well-developed time management skills in a multi-tasking environment.
• Disciplined ability to continuously learn through self-study and OJT
• Proficiency use of software tools with programming/development skills considered an asset

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At Telesat, we take pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values equality in the workplace. We are committed to providing the best candidate experience possible including any required accommodations at every stage of our interview process. All qualified applicants that have been selected for an interview that require accommodations, are advised to inform the Telesat Talent team accordingly. We will work with you to meet your needs. All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential.