Senior Mechanical Engineer - Satellite Structural Analysis

Kepler Communications; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space communication company in Toronto is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer. In this role, you will oversee structural analysis to support spacecraft design, assess satellite systems, and iterate on design options. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in mechanical design, a Bachelor's degree in engineering, and proficiency in CAD tools. This position offers competitive compensation, comprehensive health coverage, and unlimited vacation.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive health coverage

Unlimited vacation

Professional development fund

Qualifications

• 5+ years of relevant mechanical design experience.
• Understanding of heat transfer, temperature control, statics, and dynamics.
• Experience with CAD tools.

Responsibilities

• Assess structural elements of satellite systems for responses.
• Iterate design options to enhance confidence in hardware.
• Generate documentation to communicate designs.

Skills

Mechanical design experience

Understanding of design principles

Finite Element Analysis

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

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.

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 Senior Mechanical Engineer to own the structural analysis in support of the design of our spacecraft. In this role you will be responsible for the structural simulation and verification through test of our spacecraft’s predicted performance under structural loading, playing a critical role in getting Kepler hardware in orbit.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess structural elements of satellite systems for static and dynamic responses
• Iterate through design options, both in simulation and test, to rapidly enhance confidence in hardware
• Identify requirement verification methods and establish plans to mitigate technical risks through combinations of Calculation, FEA, Test, etc.
• Identify, recommend, and implement design changes in CAD to ensure system survivability and performance
• Support hands-on work building and testing hardware at both prototype and flight levels
• Generate documentation required to substantiate designed solutions and adequately communicate them to stakeholders
• Act as peer or lead reviewer providing technical oversite or subject matter expertise on other active designs

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, specifically vibration simulation and testing for satellite and unit development and qualification
• In-depth experience using Simcenter (NX) NASTRAN and Response Dynamics module
• Familiarity with ESA ECSS or NASA structural design and testing 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 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.