Optical Architect

Toronto - Canada

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 30+ days ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

The job posting is outdated and position may be filled

Job Summary

At Kepler Communications were not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - were leading it!

Our mission is to provide real-time Internet accessforspace-based assets enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and 33 satellites launched to date Kepleroperatesthe first commercial optical data relay constellation enabling real-time continuous space communications while supporting advanced on-orbitcomputeand 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 ofwhatspossible in space. We believe great ideas come from diverse perspectives andwerecommitted to creating an environment where you can grow lead and make a global impact.

Ifyoureready 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 compensationwith a robust equity plan to share in our success.

* Comprehensive coverage for health dental and vision insuranceincluding dependents.

* Unlimited vacation supportive parental leave policyand company-wide holiday shutdown.

* Semi-annual company-wide partiesand frequent in-office team events.

* Relocation packagesavailable for approved roles.

* $1500 annual professional development fundto support your growth.

* Fully stocked Toronto office kitchenwith snacks drinks games and top-notch kitchen appliances.

* Town Halls Celebration Calls and Company-wide eventsto stay connected and engaged.

* Were a certifiedGreat Place to Work five years in a row!

We are seeking an experienced Optical Architect to lead the architecture evaluation and mission-level integration of laser-based optical communication systems for Keplers space networking products. This role focuses on defining how optical technologies fit into our broader system architecture ensuring technical compatibility operational performance and adherence to industry standards.

The ideal candidate combines deep expertise in free-space optical communications with the ability to translate complex technology capabilities into system-level designs and mission strategies. You will collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure that selected optical solutions meet our performance interoperability and mission needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Optical System Architecture & Technology Assessment
Define end-to-end architecture for optical communication capabilities across Keplers products and constellation
Evaluate optical communication technologies terminals and subsystems provided by external partners and suppliers
Develop system-level requirements and integration strategies ensuring compatibility with spacecraft ground systems and network architecture
Perform optical performance modeling (link budgets pointing requirements) technology trade studies and risk assessments
Participate and support in-orbit optical commissioning anomaly investigation and continuous operational support
Maintain awareness of emerging optical technologies and assess their applicability to Keplers mission roadmap
Standards Protocols & Interoperability
Serve as the internal authority on SDA ESTOL and other optical communication standards ensuring Keplers systems align with evolving requirements
Translate standards into system behaviors interface requirements and operational concepts
Engage with standards bodies government organizations and industry partners to support interoperability and cross-system compatibility
Provide technical guidance on protocol implementation and architectural impacts
Mission Analysis Link Strategy & Availability Modeling
Lead detailed mission-level optical performance and availability analysis including visibility modeling atmospheric effects and time-dependent link dynamics
Define optical link strategies diversity concepts and operational modes to optimize reliability and network performance
Partner with mission design and systems engineering to evaluate optical concepts of operations and assess end-to-end feasibility
Develop robust modeling tools and frameworks to support ongoing constellation-level analysis
Cross-Functional Technical Integration
Guide internal teams on how optical communication capabilities integrate with spacecraft platforms avionics software and ground infrastructure
Collaborate with product and systems engineering teams to translate operational needs into architectural decisions and interface requirements
Represent technical considerations in supplier discussions partner evaluations and customer engagements
Participate in technical reviews and contribute to system-level design decisions across the organization
External Engagement & Thought Leadership
Act as a technical representative for Kepler in discussions with suppliers partners standards organizations and customers
Contribute analysis architectural insights and technical leadership to support business development and partnerships
Communicate complex optical concepts clearly to internal and external stakeholders

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Advanced degree in Optical Engineering Physics Electrical Engineering Aerospace Engineering or related field
7 years of experience in free-space optical communications including system modeling and architecture
Strong knowledge of optical communication technologies ATP concepts and link analysis
Demonstrated ability to assess vendor capabilities and understand system-level integration considerations
Familiarity with SDA ESTOL and other relevant standards frameworks
Proficiency with modeling/simulation tools (e.g. MATLAB Python STK Zemax/OpticStudio)
Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working with suppliers or partners providing optical communication terminals or subsystems
Participation in interoperability or standards development working groups
Background in constellation networking spacecraft architecture or mission operations
Understanding of optical terminal integration constraints (thermal mechanical optical pointing and interface-level considerations)
Ability to drive technical strategy within a fast-paced externally collaborative environment

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 emailprotected and we will work with you to meet your needs.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process such as reviewing applications analyzing resumes or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed please contact us.

Required Experience:

Staff IC

At Kepler Communications were not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - were leading it!Our mission is to provide real-time Internet accessforspace-based assets enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and 33 satellites launched to date Kepleroperatesthe first commercial ...