Senior Systems Verification and Validation Specialist

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.
* We’re a certified Great Place to Work®, five years in a row!

We are seeking a highly skilled Verification & Validation (V&V) Manager with a strong background in systems engineering and extensive experience in testing and validation of complex products. While direct experience in the space industry is valuable, we also welcome candidates from adjacent high-complexity domains such as autonomous vehicles, drones, defense, or aviation.

This role is critical to ensuring that our products meet mission and customer requirements through the development, execution, and oversight of robust verification and validation strategies. The V&V Manager will lead both the technical and managerial aspects of the team driving V&V philosophy, test infrastructure development, and test execution while also guiding, mentoring, and developing a high-performing engineering team.

We need a hands-on leader who combines deep technical expertise with proven team management skills. You will be responsible for ensuring that our products not only pass their tests, but also that those tests robustly validate mission and customer success while building and guiding the V&V team to deliver at the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities::
• Define and lead the V&V strategy for the spacecraft product, including philosophy, test plans, and test matrix
• Develop and maintain a harmonized test environment that integrates hardware, software, and system-level validation activities across the product lifecycle
• Oversee the development of test infrastructure (facilities, tools, automation, and processes) to support system-level and subsystem-level product testing
• Lead and manage a V&V engineering team, including setting priorities, coaching, and fostering professional development
• Drive test execution, including generation of test procedures, real-time monitoring, and ensuring adherence to product requirements
• Analyze test data and generate comprehensive test reports, documenting results, anomalies, and corrective actions that impact product performance
• Ensure robust processes for non-conformance management and resolution, ensuring accountability and rapid closure to protect product integrity
• Collaborate closely with systems engineering, design, and operations teams to ensure full product requirement coverage and traceability
• Continuously improve V&V methodologies, bringing in best practices from aerospace, automotive, robotics, and related product-focused industries

Required Skills & Qualifications::
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related Field
• 10+ years of experience in V&V or systems engineering within complex, safety-critical product environments (space, aviation, automotive, autonomous systems, defense, etc.)
• Prove track record in test planning, execution, an infrastructure development for complex hardware-software products
• Experience leading engineering teams, with demonstrated ability to motivate, mentor, and mange technical staff
• Strong knowledge of requirement traceability, system integration, and production validation methodologies
• Hands-on experience in non-conformance management and resolution tied to product quality
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
• Experience with automated test systems, simulation environments, and hardware-in-the-loop setups

Bonus Points::
• End-to-end product development experience (design through delivery and operations)
• Familiarity with industry standards (ECSS, NASA, ISO, DO-178C, ISO 26262, or equivalents)

Salary Range: $125,662 - $175,662 CAD
Actual total compensation will be determined at the Company’s discretion and is based on a variety of job-related factors, which may include, but are not limited to, relevant knowledge, skills, experience, performance, and education and/or training. The Company encourages all qualified applicants to apply, even if the posted salary range does not align with their expectations, as it does not reflect our total compensation package.
Job Type: This is for a current vacancy

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 [email protected], and we will work with you to meet your needs.