System Administrator jobs in South Africa

Kepler Communications is leading the future of connectivity, providing real-time Internet access in space to enable data-driven exploration and innovation. With 23 satellites launched and a next-generation optical network on the way, we are building infrastructure to 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 push the boundaries of what’s possible in space. We value diverse perspectives and create an environment for growth, leadership, and global impact.

If you’re ready to reach higher and shape the future space economy, this is your launchpad. Come build the future with Kepler!

• 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 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!

As a Satellite Systems Designer/Engineer, you will contribute across multiple programs, helping to deliver critical subsystems and work packages that roll up into larger missions. You’ll draw on your experience across lifecycle phases—from requirements definition, design, integration, verification, or operations—to quickly integrate into new projects and technical deliverables.

You will act as a bridge between disciplines, ensuring requirements are met, interfaces are well managed, and risks are identified and mitigated. Success in this role comes from your ability to transition between projects, tailor processes to the maturity of the work, and keep teams aligned on delivery. This role requires deep expertise in systems engineering and a strong ability to mentor junior engineers while delivering high-impact technical solutions.

• Define system architectures and system-level engineering for spacecraft, subsystems, or work packages, spanning both space and ground segments.
• Translate customer and program requirements into clear technical deliverables; develop and manage requirements, interface control, and verification strategies.
• Perform system modeling, mission analysis, trade studies, risk assessments, and performance analysis to inform design decisions.
• Drive subsystem integration and interface management across hardware, software, avionics, RF, payload, or ground systems.
• Apply reliability and risk practices such as RAMS, FMECA, and FDIR analysis where relevant.
• Contribute to LEOP, commissioning, and on-orbit operations planning and support as required.
• Support bids and proposals by preparing technical inputs, feasibility assessments, and documentation.
• Integration, test campaigns, and mission readiness activities.
• Provide technical oversight and mentorship to junior and intermediate engineers.
• Serve as a strong technical interface for customers and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in systems engineering, spacecraft development, or similar technical leadership roles.
• Proven track record delivering subsystems, technical work packages, or verification campaigns within larger missions.
• Experience with mission analysis, system modeling, technical budget derivation and management, and simulation (e.g., Matlab, Python, STK).
• Expertise in model-based systems engineering and spacecraft system design.
• Experience with requirements management, driving V&V, subsystem integration, and test planning.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Extensive experience with system-level troubleshooting and risk assessment.
• Effective communicator with the ability to present complex technical solutions to stakeholders.
• Flexibility to adapt quickly to new projects, roles, and responsibilities in a multi-program environment.

• Reliability analysis / RAMS
• FDIR design and test / FMECA
• Ground systems and operations
• Previous contributions to spacecraft integration, environmental testing, and/or commissioning
• Familiarity with space industry standards (NASA SE Handbook, ECSS-E/Q)
• Experience leading technical studies, bids, or subsystem teams
• Exposure to remote sensing instruments and their data pipelines
• Software development familiarity (Python, Matlab, embedded systems, version control)

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.

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 accommodation@kepler.space, and we will work with you to meet your needs.