Senior Software Developer - Backend

Kepler; Toronto; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity plan

Health insurance

Unlimited vacation

Parental leave

Holiday shutdown

Relocation assistance

Professional development fund

Toronto office

Company events

Great Place to Work

Job summary

Kepler Communications is hiring a Senior Software Developer to design, develop, and maintain high‑performance backend services and infrastructure for satellite networks. You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to build scalable applications for satellites and mission control software.

The role requires strong Python expertise, experience with CI/CD pipelines, Docker, Kubernetes, cloud platforms, and database proficiency.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6+ years of Python experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent.
• Strong design, architecture, testing, and debugging skills.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines (GitLab CI, GitHub Actions, Jenkins).
• Experience with Docker, Kubernetes, and infrastructure-as-code (Ansible, Terraform).
• Proficiency in Linux and Git workflows.
• Experience with AWS/Azure or other cloud platforms.
• Proficient in SQL and NoSQL databases.
• Familiarity with observability tools and security best practices.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop software for satellite network infrastructure and mission control.
• Ensure performance, security, and high availability of systems.
• Collaborate with operators, product managers, and customers on ground systems.
• Build and optimize CI/CD pipelines to improve workflows.
• Monitor health, troubleshoot, and implement improvements.
• Contribute to roadmaps and long-term technical plans for ground segments.
• Mentor junior developers and uphold engineering excellence.

Skills

Python

CI/CD

Docker

Kubernetes

Cloud platforms

SQL/NoSQL

Linux

Git

Networking

Security best practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Post-graduate degree in a relevant field

Tools

GitLab CI

GitHub Actions

Jenkins

Job description

At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of on‑demand space connectivity - we're leading it! Our mission is to provide real‑time Internet access for space‑based assets, enabling a new era of data‑driven exploration and innovation. With 33 satellites launched to date, Kepler operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation, enabling real‑time, continuous space communications while supporting advanced on‑orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities.

Industry‑leading 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’re on the hunt for a top‑tier Senior Software Developer who will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining high‑performance backend services and infrastructure. You will work closely with cross‑functional teams to build scalable applications that support the development, testing, and operation of our satellites and mission control software.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop reliable, high‑quality software related to operating Kepler’s satellite network infrastructure and mission control software automation.
• Ensure system performance, security, and high availability through best practices.
• Collaborate with satellite operators, product managers, and customers to deliver mission‑critical ground systems.
• Build and optimize CI/CD pipelines to streamline deployment and improve development workflows.
• Monitor system health, troubleshoot issues, and proactively implement improvements.
• Help develop roadmaps and long‑term technical plans for Kepler’s ground segment.
• Mentor junior developers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6+ years of Python experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent.
• Strong software design and development skills, including algorithms, system architecture, testing, and debugging.
• Expertise in building and maintaining CI/CD pipelines using tools like GitLab CI, GitHub Actions, or Jenkins.
• Experience with containerized software (Docker, Kubernetes, K8s) and infrastructure‑as‑code (Ansible, Terraform, etc.).
• Ability to operate in a Linux‑based environment.li>
• Ability to effectively use git.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Post‑graduate degree in a relevant field.
• Experience with architecting and deploying on cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, etc.).
• Proficiency in SQL and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, DynamoDB, etc.).
• Familiarity with Python development tools such as uv, pytest/unittest, setuptools, SWIG, and C‑extensions.
• Strong knowledge of computer networking and modern networking protocols, especially delay‑tolerant networking.
• Experience with event‑driven architectures (Apache Pulsar, AWS SNS/SQS, Kafka, RabbitMQ).
• Familiarity with observability tools (Prometheus, Grafana, TimescaleDB, ELK stack).
• Knowledge of security best practices in software development.

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.