Hardware Test Engineer - Contract 3+ Months

Job description

**At [Kepler Communications](https://kepler.space/), we're not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - *we're leading it!*** Our mission is to provide real-time on-orbit connectivity for critical missions, enabling a new era of data-driven intelligence 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. **\* We’re a certified [Great Place to Work](https://www.greatplacetowork.ca/en/certification-menu/certified-organizations-updated#certified-organizations2/view-sub-list-details70/5f3438830d6f2900170827a4/)**®, seven years in a row! **\*\*\*This is a 3+ month Contract Assignment \*\*\*** We invest heavily to deliver the best products to our customers, and so we’re on the hunt for a **Hardware Test Engineer** who will architect and design test infrastructure to ensure reliability and top quality for all Kepler products. ### Key Responsibilities: - Design and implement test procedures, fixtures, and software for PCBs, subassemblies, and complete systems. Create both manual and automated test setups using lab and production-grade equipment. Develop and maintain test scripts to improve test efficiency and repeatability - Develop comprehensive test plans, test cases, and test reports that align with design specifications and customer requirements. Maintain traceability and detailed records for auditing and continuous improvement - Interface with electrical, firmware, mechanical, and manufacturing teams to validate new designs, provide DFT (Design for Test) feedback, and resolve test issues across the development lifecycle. Support prototype bring-up and debug, assist with root cause analysis of test failures, and implement corrective actions - Collaborate with hardware design teams early in the development cycle to provide DFT feedback, ensuring testability of PCBs and assemblies. Participate in design reviews for all active designs to ensure test requirements have been met ### Required Skills & Qualifications: - Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field - 4+ years of hands-on experience in hardware testing, design validation, or a related field - Comfortable in a lab environment and experience using standard tools such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, multimeters, VNAs, etc. - 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 - Experience with at least one scripting or programming language (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Bash, or C/C++) - Ability to work in a team and independently with little supervision. Experience with one or more CAD tools (Altium, Eagle, Allegro, KiCad, Upverter, etc.) - Ability to troubleshoot hardware issues, drive design decisions and implement well documented processes - 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 ### Bonus Points: - Knowledge and / or experience in design and / or testing for Space - Test experience in a low volume + high complexity environment