Senior Systems Verification and Validation (V&V) 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!

As a Senior Systems Verification and Validation (V&V) Specialist, you will play a senior technical leadership role within the Systems V&V team, owning the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of complex verification and validation campaigns for spacecraft systems.

You will take responsibility for requirement closure across mission-critical systems, lead the development of advanced automated test infrastructure, and guide the strategy for system-level verification and validation through functional, electrical, and environmental testing.

This role requires deep technical expertise, broad cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to influence program-level decisions through technical leadership. A successful candidate will bring efficiency to the Systems V&V team throughout various programs across the company, enabling broad V&V test coverage while maintaining agility and quick execution.

Key Responsibilities: :
• Own verification and validation strategies for spacecraft system-level requirements, including full requirement traceability, closure planning, and test matrix development
• Lead the design, implementation, and improvement of automated test architectures and data analysis pipelines (Python, GitLab CI/CD, DevOps workflows)
• Lead development, maintenance, and resource management of V&V infrastructure, including Hardware-in-the-Loop testing systems, and flight-representative development and/or engineering setups (e.g. ‘Flatsat’)
• Direct the execution of functional, electrical, and system-level tests, ensuring alignment with mission requirements and operational environments
• Lead environmental test campaigns (EMI/EMC, vibration, TVAC), including authoring procedures, coordinating execution, and ensuring requirement closure
• Provide technical leadership for launch campaign validation activities and represent SVV at the launch site
• Operate, maintain, and train others on advanced diagnostic and test equipment (solar array simulators, VNAs, high-precision power analyzers, etc.)
• Represent the SVV function in technical reviews, program-level discussions, and customer-facing forums
• Drive continuous improvement of V&V processes, methodologies, and tools across the organization
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers, providing technical guidance, peer review, and strategic direction for their development
• Author and deliver technical documentation, training materials, and presentations to internal stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to work in a lab or cleanroom environment
• Ability to travel as required to support testing and launch activities
• Ability to do shift work and, where necessary, weekend work during specific test campaigns

Required Skills & Qualifications::
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Computer, Software Engineering, or related field
• 8+ years of relevant experience with increasing technical scope and leadership
• Deep understanding of the verification and validation lifecycle, including requirement decomposition
• Deep understanding of engineering disciplines such as vehicle electrical systems, avionics, and production-level software
• Proficiency with system test equipment (oscilloscopes, VNAs, power & signal analyzers etc.)
• Demonstrated expertise in developing automated test environments, test libraries, or hardware-in-the-loop verification systems
• Significant experience with environmental test planning and facility operations (TVAC, vibration, EMI/EMC)
• Proven ability to lead troubleshooting efforts across disciplines and provide solutions to complex system-level issues
• Experience leading projects and mentoring teams, with the ability to influence program-level technical decisions
• Experience working in ISO-8 cleanroom environments and lower

Bonus Points::
• Deep understanding of spacecraft electrical systems (EPS, solar arrays, batteries), avionics architectures, and flight software
• Proficiency with spacecraft-specific test equipment, such as solar array simulators, vacuum & thermal chambers, etc.
• Advanced scripting and automation experience (Python, GitLab CI/CD, DevOps workflows)
• Strong knowledge of verification standards (ECSS, NASA, RPUG) and test protocols
• Expertise in requirement management tools and test configuration control systems

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.