Embedded Software Development Manager
Kepler Communications
Software Engineering
Sterling, VA, USA · Toronto, ON, Canada
Posted on May 10, 2025
Kepler is on an audacious mission to deliver Internet connectivity to space, creating the infrastructure to support the rapidly increasing data needs of the space economy. With 23 satellites launched to date and our optical constellation on the horizon, our ambition is to improve access to space-generated data, whether in LEO, MEO, GEO, or beyond! Kepler is hard at work innovating and continuing to grow and expand our most important asset – the Team!
Kepler is seeking a hands-on technical leader to manage and grow our embedded software team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, brings structure and clarity to execution, and can lead a team through the complexities of delivering high-reliability software for space systems. You’ll balance leadership, technical oversight, and team development while contributing to the execution of mission-critical programs.
Expected Time Breakdown
50 percent, team leadership and execution oversight
20 percent, technical guidance and design input
20 percent, recruiting and onboarding
10 percent, administrative and reporting
Key Responsibilities:
- Build, lead, and retain a high-performing embedded software team.
- Ensure the team has the tools, training, and support needed to deliver high-quality software.
- Partner with program and product leads to define scope, resourcing, and delivery milestones.
- Establish and enforce engineering processes that drive quality and execution consistency.
- Participate in sprint planning and daily syncs to unblock issues and maintain momentum.
- Provide ongoing coaching, technical guidance, and career development through regular 1:1s and structured performance reviews.
- Support hiring plans, lead interviews, and onboard new team members.
- Monitor day-to-day execution across multiple projects, ensuring alignment with program goals and timelines.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related discipline
- Minimum 5 years of experience in embedded software development
- Minimum 3 years of experience managing software teams in an agile environment
- Strong background in C, C++, and Python
- Experience with embedded Linux and bare-metal systems
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally
- Proven ability to manage shifting priorities and drive execution through ambiguity
- Track record of building healthy team culture and driving performance through clear expectations and feedback
Bonus Points:
- Experience managing teams in a startup or scaling environment
- Familiarity with RTOS, BSPs, and embedded platform bring-up
- Exposure to satellite systems, aerospace programs, or other high-reliability domains
- Experience with static analysis, CI pipelines, and V&V practices for embedded systems
Kepler Communications is committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible environment, where all employees and customers feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from: Women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, visible minorities, people who identify as LGBTQ+ and others who may contribute to diversification in our workplace.
As part of our commitment to accessibility for all persons with disabilities, Kepler will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact our People & Culture team, through our Career Page to make your accommodation needs known and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.