Satellite Systems Specialist

Telesat (NASDAQ and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 50 years. Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.

Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.

The company’s state-of-the-art fleet consists of 15 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite. For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com

Telesat believes in the power of collaboration and the value of in-person interactions. This is why our employees generally work from the office Tuesday - Thursday, leaving Monday and Friday for choice and flexibility to work where you feel most effective. This setup fosters brainstorming, problem-solving, and trusted relationships and allows our employees to come together three days a week to collaborate, innovate and thrive!

Seamlessly integrated with on-ground data networks, our next-generation LEO spacecrafts include state-of-the-art technologies, such as advanced phased array antennas that dynamically focus capacity precisely where users require it and optical inter-satellite links to create a fully interconnected global mesh network accessible from anywhere.

Are you passionate about cutting-edge satellite technology and global connectivity? We are seeking an experienced, motivated and talented Satellite System Specialist to join our team. As a member of the growing LEO Payload Engineering team, you will play a crucial role in the success of the Telesat Lightspeed LEO satellite constellation program. 

Main Responsibilities

• Collaborating closely with other Telesat Lightspeed segments on several key system aspects such as end-to-end communication, network entry, service availability, and satellite payload power consumption management
• Liaising with cross-functional teams to align payload design with overall network performance
• Interfacing with the spacecraft and/or payload unit suppliers to ensure that the development, qualification and performance of the hardware meets the Telesat Lightspeed requirements
• Monitoring the spacecraft and payload unit suppliers from a technical perspective to ensure that the committed services and deliveries meet all the technical requirements and remain on schedule
• Interfacing directly with supplier engineering staff to understand and resolve design, production or test issues (co-engineering)
• Reviewing and assessing payload integration activities
• Evaluating the pertinent technical analysis presented by the spacecraft supplier
• Analyzing design review data and actively participate in various Preliminary, Critical and Test Readiness Reviews, and provide technical reports on program status.
• Taking an active part in In-Orbit Testing (IOT) of satellite performance, providing recommendations for satellite acceptance and commissioning
• Preparing presentations and regular status reports

Education & Experience Required

• Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical/Aerospace (or equivalent) is required
• Minimum of 12 years of relevant space industry experience
• Firm background in satellite payload and/or payload unit engineering
• Experience with optical communications and/or digital communications and/or space electronics an asset
• Technical expertise supported by strong organizational and planning skills
• Strong technical, presentation, interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
• Familiarity with satellite/payload manufacturing and supply chain management
• Comfortable with or willing to learn how to use collaborative software such as Jira, Confluence & Jama
• Bilingual in English and French an asset (but not required)

Decision Making & Supervision

• In this role, the incumbent will have significant influence on the payload technical monitoring for the Lightspeed program. The incumbent will need to make recommendations and decisions based on their experience and identify key risks and develop risk mitigation plans with the suppliers
• The incumbent may lead task team in the resolution of technical problems or in spacecraft monitoring activities.
• The incumbent will provide technical guidance to senior and junior engineers from all groups

Working Conditions

• Working conditions are typical of an office environment.
• Frequent travel to the spacecraft supplier (Montreal), and occasional international travel will be required.

The successful candidate must be able to work in Canada and obtain clearance under the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP).

At Telesat, we take pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values equality in the workplace. We are committed to providing the best candidate experience possible including any required accommodations at every stage of our interview process. All qualified applicants that have been selected for an interview that require accommodations, are advised to inform the Telesat Talent team accordingly. We will work with you to meet your needs. All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential.