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 on-orbit connectivity for critical missions, enabling a new era of data-driven intelligence 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 Systems Verification and Validation (V&V) Specialist, you will serve a prominent technical role within the Systems V&V team, focusing on the development and execution of verification and validation activities for spacecraft systems. This role is responsible for ensuring system-level requirement closure through automated functional and environmental testing during build, integration, and mission readiness. You will define and develop test architectures, own requirement validation against mission and environmental specifications, and support integration campaign activities including system-level qualification, acceptance, environmental and launch testing. This position requires deep technical expertise, cross-functional collaboration, and a strategic mindset to influence project direction and execution. 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:

• Define and execute verification and validation strategies for spacecraft system-level requirements, including test plans, test matrices, requirement mapping, and closure tracking
• Develop and maintain automated test architectures and scripting tools for system-level functional verification using Python, GitLab CI/CD, and related toolsets
• Development and maintenance of V&V test infrastructure, including Hardware-in-the-Loop testing systems, and flight-representative development and/or engineering setups (e.g. ‘Flatsat’)
• Lead the development and execution of functional and electrical test procedures aligned with system requirements
• Analyze test results and performance data to validate system functionality against mission requirements and operational environments
• Lead environmental test campaigns including EMI/EMC, vibration, and TVAC, owning procedure development and execution
• Contribute to launch campaign planning and support validation activities associated with launch site integration
• Collaborate closely with other Engineering teams and Flight Operations to ensure end-to-end system readiness
• Operate and train others on advanced lab equipment, such as solar array simulators, power meters, VNAs, and oscilloscopes
• Participate in design reviews and provide technical input on system-level testing strategies
• Mentor and guide junior engineers on best practices in system-level testing and requirement verification
• Contribute to test plan documentation and test report generation for delivery 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
• 4+ years of experience in system test, validation, or systems engineering or master’s degree and 2+ years of experience
• Expert-level experience developing automated test scripts and software-based verification environments
• Proficiency with test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, power meters, VNAs, etc.)
• Experience with requirement verification tracking tools and test configuration management
• Ability to interpret system-level requirements and translate them into executable test activities
• Demonstrated willingness and ability to leverage AI-assisted engineering and development tools to improve productivity, design quality, and innovation while adapting to evolving technologies and best practices
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data interpretation and requirement closure
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical input at program reviews and guide junior engineers
• Experience working in ISO-8 cleanroom environments and lower
• Demonstrated willingness and ability to leverage AI-assisted engineering and development tools to improve productivity, design quality, and innovation while adapting to evolving technologies and best practices

Bonus Points:

• Familiarity of verification standards (ECSS, NASA, RPUG) and test protocols
• 4+ years of experience in spacecraft design, testing and validation. Experience in other technical industries such as automotive or aeronautics is suitable
• Advanced scripting and automation experience (Python, GitLab CI/CD, DevOps workflows)

Salary Range: $100,622 - 150,622 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

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.