Senior Program Manager at kepler in Toronto, Ontario

Job description

• As a Senior 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 to develop and commission 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.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage all aspects of program scope, schedule, cost, and risk throughout the full program lifecycle
• Serve as the primary interface with subcontractors and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment on 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

Requirements

• 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 and experience with 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
• 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

Skills

Required

• Program management
• Integrated master schedules (IMS)
• Earned value management (EVM)
• Risk management
• Agile development practices
• Cross-functional team leadership
• Communication (written and verbal)
• Organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Interpersonal and leadership skills

Preferred

• Optical communications
• Electronics development
• Flight software development
• GNC/AOCS subsystem development
• PMP certification

Benefits

• * 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®, seven years in a row!
• 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.