Senior Program Manager

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! 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 our continued growth in the space sector. In this crucial role, you will lead a cross-functional team in orchestrating on-orbit demonstrations aboard Kepler satellites, advancing our ÆTHER spacecraft platform through technical iterations, and interfacing with our hosted payload customers. You may also play a key role in the development and commissioning of our Tranche-2 satellite constellation. You will serve as a key leader, working in close collaboration with our Engineering and Operations teams to ensure on-time, on-budget execution of programs from initial kickoff through operational handover. In addition to program execution, you may play a pivotal role in proposal efforts - contributing to opportunities involving the development or enhancement of satellite systems, software, satellite commissioning, or on-orbit operations. This role is ideally suited for candidates who bring good technical depth across a range of aerospace engineering disciplines paired with strong program management acumen. The successful candidate will have a proven ability to lead high-performing teams while building effective relationships with external stakeholders. ### Key Responsibilities: - Own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk throughout the full program 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, while providing clear, data-driven recommendations to business leadership - Lead cross-functional coordination across engineering, operations and business development to ensure program alignment and execution - Monitor and report on program health using key performance indicators such as Schedule Performance Index (SPI), Cost Performance Index (CPI), and Estimate at Completion (EAC) - Collaborate closely with the Program Director, peer Program Managers, Chief Engineer, and Systems Engineering team to maintain cohesive strategy and consistent messaging - Proactively identify execution barriers and critical risks, develop mitigation plans with relevant teams, and escalate issues when necessary - Maintain strong communication with department leads to surface top risks, key milestones, and ensure accountability for functional deliverables - Present program status and performance insights to internal and external stakeholders using the most effective forums and communication channels ### Required Skills & Qualifications: - 7+ years of experience in the 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 - proven experience in overseeing system development, from design to qualification and integration - Strong understanding and practical use of integrated master schedules (IMS) and earned value management (EVM) techniques to track, control, and report on program execution - Demonstrated ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical, schedule, and cost risks to ensure successful program delivery - Familiarity with Agile development practices and experience integrating Agile methodologies into hardware-focused program execution - Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical and programmatic information - Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment - Proven success in managing cross-functional teams, program budgets, and schedules to drive programs to successful completion - Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and build consensus across technical and non-technical teams ### Bonus Points: - Previous experience in technical leadership position such as Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead, project engineer, systems lead or technical lead - Knowledge and / or experience in optical communications - Experience with electronics development, flight software development and GNC/AOCS subsystem development - PMP certification