Software Architect

Rocket Lab; Canada; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in space technology is looking for a Software Architect to design high-performance software solutions for space systems. The role calls for deep technical expertise and a collaborative mindset, ensuring seamless integration of software across multiple systems. With an attractive compensation package, this position offers the chance to contribute to pioneering projects that are reshaping the future of space connectivity.

Benefits

Competitive compensation with equity plan

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Unlimited vacation and parental leave policy

Annual professional development fund of $1,500

Fully stocked office kitchen

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in software design and development.
• Expertise in C, C++, and Python for embedded applications.
• Strong background in embedded Linux, RTOS, and bare-metal system design.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-level software architecture for embedded systems.
• Provide technical guidance to software development teams.
• Ensure adherence to established code review processes.

Skills

C

C++

Python

Embedded Systems

Real-time Computing

Problem-solving

Debugging

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field

Tools

SonarQube

Cppcheck

Pylint

CodeSonar

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, four years in a row!

Kepler is seeking an experienced Software Architect to lead the design and development of robust, high-performance software solutions for space systems. This role requires deep technical expertise in software architecture, embedded systems, and real-time computing, ensuring software reliability and scalability for mission-critical applications.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in software design, a strong understanding of embedded Linux, RTOS, and bare-metal systems, and proficiency in C, C++, and Python.

Breakdown of Responsibilities:

System Architecture & Design: 40%

Technical Leadership & Collaboration: 30%

Process Adherence & Quality Assurance Oversight: 20%

Documentation & Process Improvement: 10%

Key Responsibilities:

• System Architecture & Design:
• Develop high-level software architecture for embedded and real-time systems, ensuring scalability, maintainability, reliability, correctness, and performance.
• Define software interfaces, communication protocols, and integration strategies for complex, multi-system environments.
• Ensure software solutions align with mission requirements, safety standards, and industry best practices.
• Technical Leadership & Collaboration:
• Provide technical guidance to software development teams, enforcing best practices in architecture and design.
• Collaborate with systems engineers, firmware developers, and hardware teams to ensure seamless integration.
• Act as a subject matter expert, contributing to design reviews and architectural decisions.
• Process Adherence & Quality Assurance Oversight:
• Ensure adherence to established code review processes, static analysis, and verification protocols.
• Collaborate with quality assurance teams to uphold software safety and security standards, utilizing tools such as SonarQube, Cppcheck, Pylint, or CodeSonar.
• Support the integration of CI/CD pipelines to enhance development efficiency and maintain architectural integrity.
• Documentation & Process Improvement:
• Maintain comprehensive architecture documentation, design rationale, and implementation guidelines.
• Establish and optimize software development processes, ensuring efficiency and quality control.
• Stay informed on emerging trends, industry standards, and best practices in space software architecture.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in software design and development, with a focus on embedded systems and real-time computing.
• Expertise in C, C++, and Python for embedded and real-time applications.
• Strong background in embedded Linux, RTOS, and bare-metal system design.
• Experience in software architecture design, including multi-threaded, multi-core processing, and inter-microprocessor communications.
• Familiarity with static code analysis tools such as SonarQube, Cppcheck, Pylint, or CodeSonar.
• Experience withdesign-for-test and designing for upgradeability.
• Proficiency in integrating and supporting CI/CD pipelines within development workflows.
• Strong problem-solving, debugging, and troubleshooting skills.

Bonus Points:

• Experience in space industry software development, including flight software and ground systems.
• Familiarity with NASA-STD-8739.8 and ESA ECSS standards (e.g., ECSS-E-ST-40C, ECSS-Q-ST-80C).
• Experience with safety-critical software development (e.g., DO-178C, ISO 26262).
• Knowledge of hardware/software co-design and FPGA-based processing architectures.
• Experience with ARM-based devices.

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.