Lead GNC Engineer
Kepler Communications
Toronto, ON, Canada
Posted on Jun 3, 2025
Kepler is on an audacious mission to deliver Internet connectivity to space, creating the infrastructure to support the rapidly increasing data needs of the space economy. With 23 satellites launched to date and our optical constellation on the horizon, our ambition is to improve access to space-generated data, whether in LEO, MEO, GEO, or beyond! Kepler is hard at work innovating and continuing to grow and expand our most important asset – the Team!
As a Lead GNC Designer / Engineer, you will be responsible for defining the direction of technical growth of Kepler’s Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) platform.
You will define the software and hardware architecture of Kepler’s GNC system, aligning mission requirements with its capabilities. You will also drive reviews, be responsible for documentation and interaction with key stakeholders, and and adhere to processes that guarantee the success of GNC initiatives.
You will lead and drive multidisciplinary functional groups to maintain exceptional attitude and orbit control performance of Keppler’s spacecraft; ensuring that the GNC platform adheres to key performance metrics and supports payload operations. Lastly, you are expected to interact with key stakeholders including customers and executives to defend your technical decisions and positions associated with the GNC design, reviews and planning.
Key Responsibilities:
- Scope capabilities and requirements for the GNC system.
- Define GNC architecture to satisfy project requirements.
- Technical leadership and mentoring of GNC engineers.
- Define the direction of technical growth of the GNC system.
- Technical ownership of the process of development of the GNC system.
- Lead the development of the Software in the Loop and Hardware in the Loop frameworks to facilitate continuous iteration and testing.
- Lead the development of analysis and on-orbit debug capabilities.
- Automate on-orbit operation, calibration and troubleshooting of the GNC system.
- Be a technical authority in supporting the development of cross functional initiatives.
- Manage GNC schedule and resources on projects.
Customer Interaction and Communication Expectations:
- Engages with customers and stakeholders at the program level to align technical execution with mission objectives.
- Collaborates closely with program and assurance teams to ensure compliance with mission and contractual requirements.
- Leads technical discussions and decision-making processes to resolve critical challenges.
- Represents the technical team in program management reviews and customer briefings.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (physics, electrical, mechanical, aerospace engineering).
- 8+ years of relevant experience in an aerospace GNC or related role.
- Experience leading the GNC design of satellites and/or other space systems.
- Strong understanding of spacecraft control and determination.
- Experience with developing and maintaining software and hardware in the loop test setups.
- Strong understanding of orbital mechanics, classical dynamics and the low-earth orbit environment.
- Experience with flexible body control, orbital maneuvering, sensor filtering, fault management, software development, and navigation filtering.
- Capable of identifying and solving complex problems with little to no supervision or direction.
- Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere.
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Bonus Points:
- Master's degree in a relevant field (physics, electrical, mechanical, aerospace engineering).
Kepler Communications is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from: Women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, people who identify as LGBTQ+ and others who may contribute to diversification in our workplace.
As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, Kepler will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact our People & Culture team, through our Career Page to make your accommodation needs known and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.
