RF and Optical Satellite Communications Chief Architect - Kepler US
Kepler Communications
Marketing & Communications, IT
Sterling, VA, USA
Posted on Sep 13, 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 designed to recognize and reward your contributions.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance—including dependents.
- 401(k) and an annual Wellness Allowance.
- Unlimited vacation, supportive parental leave policy, and company-wide holiday shutdown.
- Semi-annual company-wide parties and regular (virtual and team events.
- Relocation packages available for approved roles.
- $1,500 annual professional development fund to support your growth.
- Town Halls, Celebration Calls and Frequent company-wide events to stay connected and engaged.
As Kepler begins to scale globally, a priority expansion market is the United States both commercially and supporting US Government customers. Kepler’s new US-based Chief Architect will report directly to the Kepler Communications US President and be pivotal in growing the business technologically as well as providing critical support for the engineering and business development teams. The Chief Architect will also support the Kepler executive team on key strategic initiatives that will increase usage and capabilities of the Kepler Network.
As a key member of a passionate, accomplished team of experts, you will participate in the technical development of satellites and their subsystems - laser focused on the Kepler Vision of building the internet in space. We are seeking a proactive, self-driven, service-oriented individual with excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills that can thrive in a fast-paced environment. In this hands-on position, you will work with business development, engineering, and Kepler’s customers to drive growth and market presence for the Kepler US entity. This position will directly impact the history of space development and the growth of the space economy requiring your dedicated commitment and detailed attention towards effective and timely development of Kepler's unique space solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Technical Visionary leading the architecting and development of high-level technical solutions, concepts, and applications for new market opportunities from inception through commercialization in concert and coordination with business development and engineering
- Customer Champion contributing to the development of marketing and sales materials for new technical concepts, applications and solutions including customer presentations and proposals
- Partners with the sales & business development and engineering teams to identify and develop solutions that address the needs of US Government customers as well as strategic applications from the company’s existing portfolio of technologies and capabilities
- Partners with Kepler’s engineering team to identify, assess and advance technical upgrades to existing products supporting efforts in the US, both commercial and government, as well as key strategic initiatives worldwide
- Maintains a working knowledge of space industry developments, markets, cutting edge technologies and associated trends
- Serves as the technology leader on Kepler’s US leadership team
- Travel approximately 25-30% annually (domestic and international)
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in an engineering or scientific field
- 15+ years of directly related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Experience interacting and co-architecting solutions with commercial and Federal customers
- Strong designer, with an ability to take an idea from a notional concept and develop it into a product or service that has technical credibility and is responsive to a business case and market
- Strong technology leader with a proven track record in innovation strategy within new product development, strategic planning, goal setting, process development and budgeting
- Experienced managing and mentoring individuals and technical teams within an agile environment
- Excellent communication, leadership and strategic thinking abilities with a problem-solving aptitude
- Strong ability to convey technical topics in easy-to-understand business terms and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and external partners
- Intellectual horsepower with the ability to identify new opportunities, drive clarity, create focus and make tough decisions in complex and dynamic contexts
- Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to present with credibility a technical or business case to executive leadership
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Current and/or active US TS DOD clearance
Bonus Points:
- Master's degree or PhD in technology or a business discipline
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.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Kepler is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
If you require accommodation at 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.
