Senior Program Manager

Overview Kepler Communications is building real-time Internet access for space-based assets, enabling data-driven exploration and innovation. The company operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation and supports on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities. The team emphasizes diverse perspectives and growth, leadership, and global impact.

If you’re ready to reach higher and contribute to shaping the future space economy, this is your launchpad. Join Kepler to build the future in space.

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.

Kepler is a certified Great Place to Work, five years in a row.

Role Overview As a Program Manager at Kepler, you will spearhead the development and execution of mission-critical satellite systems from concept through on-orbit validation. You will drive strategic program initiatives that strengthen global partnerships and fuel growth in the space sector. This role leads a cross-functional team to orchestrate on-orbit demonstrations aboard Kepler satellites, advance the ÆTHER spacecraft platform, and interface with hosted payload customers. You may contribute to the development and commissioning of the Tranche-2 satellite constellation.

You will work with Engineering and Operations to ensure on-time, on-budget program execution from kickoff through operational handover. You may also contribute to proposals involving satellite systems, software, satellite commissioning, or on-orbit operations.

This role suits candidates with strong technical depth across aerospace engineering disciplines and solid program management acumen. The successful candidate will lead high-performing teams and build relationships with external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities Own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk throughout the full lifecycle

Serve as the primary interface with hosted payload customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment and execution

Plan and facilitate key programmatic and technical reviews, including design, qualification, and production milestones

Develop and maintain comprehensive program plans, key performance metrics, and regular status reports

Drive accountability across teams by making informed decisions on scope changes and performance specifications, with data-driven recommendations to leadership

Lead cross-functional coordination across engineering, operations, and business development to ensure program alignment and execution

Monitor and report on program health using metrics such as SPI, CPI, and EAC

Collaborate with the Program Director, peer Program Managers, Chief Engineer, and Systems Engineering team to maintain cohesive strategy and messaging

Identify execution barriers and risks, develop mitigation plans with relevant teams, and escalate issues when necessary

Maintain strong communication with department leads to surface top risks and milestones, ensuring accountability for functional deliverables

Present program status and performance insights to internal and external stakeholders through effective forums and channels

Required Skills & Qualifications 7+ years of experience in aerospace or other high-reliability industries, with at least 4 years in a program management role

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline

Knowledge of satellite development life cycle and experience overseeing system development from design to qualification and integration

Strong understanding of IMS and EVM techniques to track, control, and report on program execution

Demonstrated ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks

Familiarity with Agile development practices and integrating Agile methods into hardware-focused program execution

Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex technical and programmatic information

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Proven success in managing cross-functional teams, budgets, and schedules to drive programs to completion

Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to influence stakeholders and build consensus

Bonus Points Experience in technical leadership roles such as Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead, project engineer, systems lead, or technical lead

Knowledge or experience in optical communications

Experience with electronics development, flight software development, and GNC/AOCS subsystem development

PMP certification

Salary Range: 131,911 CAD – 181,911 CAD

Actual total compensation will be determined at the Company’s discretion based on knowledge, skills, experience, performance, and education. The Company encourages all qualified applicants to apply, even if the posted salary range does not align with expectations, as it does not reflect total compensation.

Employment Type: This is for a current vacancy

Employment Equity & Accommodation Kepler is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, contact the People & Culture team at [email protected] for assistance.

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