Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering

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 Senior Manager, Mechanical Engineering to lead the mechanical engineering function at Kepler, supporting the development and delivery of next-generation space hardware.  Mechanical engineering supports multiple concurrent efforts, including integrated product teams (IPTs) and program teams. This role encompasses staffing, alignment, growth, and performance of the mechanical engineering organization.  You will operate through managers, team leads, and senior individual contributors to ensure the organization is structured and enabled to deliver effectively. This role focuses on organizational leadership, development of engineering leaders, and alignment with program needs and execution.  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 accommodation@kepler.space, and we will work with you to meet your needs.  country: CA all locations: [Toronto, Ontario] commitment: Full-time Regular department: Engineering location: Toronto, Ontario team: Mechanical Key Responsibilities: :   Leadership & Organization  Lead and develop the mechanical engineering organization across design and analysis disciplines   Manage through managers and team leads to drive performance and execution  Build and maintain a strong engineering culture focused on ownership, quality, and continuous improvement   Lead hiring strategy and organizational growth planning  Coach and develop managers, team leads, and individual contributors  Technical Excellence & Execution  Define and maintain standards for mechanical design, structural, and thermal analysis   Establish and enforce best practices across design, simulation, and hardware verification  Guide and review critical technical decisions, risks, and trade-offs  Propose and drive R&D aligned with Kepler's roadmap and product vision  Oversee tools and infrastructure; drive adoption of new technologies and processes  Improve engineering efficiency, reliability, and traceability  Cross-functional Alignment  Enable collaboration across mechanical, electrical, RF, systems, production, and operations teams  Partner with Technical Project Managers, Chief Engineers, and program leadership to align priorities  Required Skills & Qualifications: : Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent   10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering   Experience leading engineering teams across multiple mechanical domains (e.g., design, structural, thermal); experience managing managers is an asset  Strong understanding of mechanical design, structural analysis, and thermal engineering principles   Experience delivering hardware from concept through qualification and flight readiness   Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills   Bonus Points:  : Experience in spacecraft or aerospace hardware development   Experience scaling engineering teams in a high-growth environment   Familiarity with CAD, PLM, and simulation toolchains   Experience defining engineering processes and organizational structures