At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - we're leading it!
Our mission is to provide real-time Internet access for space-based assets, enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and innovation. With 33 satellites launched to date, Kepler operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation, enabling real-time, continuous space communications while supporting advanced on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities.
Industry-leading 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.
Position Status: Contingent Upon Program Award
We are seeking a Mechanical Designer to lead the development and verification of spacecraft mechanical subsystems.
This role combines mechanical design, structural and thermal analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing support, and subsystem integration to deliver flight-ready hardware. The successful candidate will own complete spacecraft mechanical subsystems from concept through qualification, working closely with systems, RF, electrical, software, manufacturing, AIT, and mission operations teams to develop robust and scalable solutions.
The ideal candidate thrives in environments where performance, mass, manufacturability, reliability, schedule, and cost must all be balanced to achieve mission success. They are equally comfortable performing analysis, building hardware, leading technical discussions, and solving complex multidisciplinary problems.
This role is an opportunity to directly influence the next generation of Kepler spacecraft while helping establish the engineering practices, technical rigor, and culture that will enable Kepler to become a world leader in spacecraft development and space infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
Subsystem Development & Ownership
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Own subsystem-level mechanical development activities including mechanical design, structural analysis, thermal analysis, integration, verification, testing, and qualification
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Drive technical trade studies and design decisions using first-principles engineering, simulation, testing, and sound engineering judgment
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Balance subsystem performance, mass, reliability, manufacturability, schedule, and cost objectives throughout development
Analysis, Verification & Risk Reduction
Cross-Functional Collaboration
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Work closely with systems, RF, electrical, software, manufacturing, supply chain, AIT, and mission operations teams to develop integrated spacecraft solutions
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Facilitate technical discussions across disciplines, clearly communicating design intent, trade-offs, risks, and recommendations
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Contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering processes, design methodologies, analysis approaches, and verification practices
Required Skills & Qualifications:
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Strong understanding of structural mechanics, heat transfer, dynamics, mechanical design, and hardware integration
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Experience with one or more CAD platforms such as Onshape, Creo, SolidWorks, NX, or equivalent
- Demonstrated willingness and ability to leverage AI-assisted engineering and development tools to improve productivity, design quality, and innovation while adapting to evolving technologies and best practices
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Comfortable operating in a hands-on development environment involving prototyping, testing, troubleshooting, and hardware development
Bonus Points:
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Experience with Simcenter 3D, Simcenter/NX NASTRAN, Simcenter Space Systems Thermal, or equivalent analysis tools
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Familiarity with ESA ECSS, NASA, or equivalent aerospace structural, thermal, and design standards
