Lead GNC Engineer
Kepler Communications
Toronto, ON, Canada
Posted on Jun 3, 2025
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.
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).
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 accommodation@kepler.space, and we will work with you to meet your needs.
