Senior Satellite Communications Specialist

Job Title: Senior Satellite Communications Specialist
Location: Toronto/Vaughan, ON, Canada (Hybrid, Full time)
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Position Overview:
SFL Missions Inc. is seeking a Senior Satellite Communications Specialist to join and augment our dedicated team of highly experienced engineers, helping advance the RF and communications systems behind our next generation of spacecraft.

This is a senior individual contributor role for an experienced communications engineer who thrives on solving technically demanding problems and influencing the design of mission-critical satellite systems. While the position does not include direct people management responsibilities, you will play a pivotal role in guiding engineering decisions, mentoring technical teams, and helping ensure the success of SFL's next generation of space missions.
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Key Responsibilities:
• Satellite Communications Design
o Design, simulate, build, and test satellite radio receivers and transmitters.
o Develop ultra-low-power communication systems capable of operating in radiation environments.
o Design high data-rate transmitters capable of 500+ Mbps performance.
o Develop end-to-end satellite link budgets and optimize signal performance.
• RF Systems Expertise
o Work across VHF, UHF, S-band, X-band, K-band, and other RF spectrum bands.
o Specify and source RF components such as filters, couplers, splitters, and amplifiers.
• Signal Processing, Modulation, and Protocols
o Implement and troubleshoot communication schemes including:
 BPSK
 QPSK
 GFSK
o Apply coding techniques such as:
 Convolutional Coding
 Reed-Solomon Coding
o Apply industry communication standards including:
 CCSDS
 HDLC
• Hardware Design
o Design and analyze analog, mixed-signal, and high-speed digital communication systems.
o Support high-speed FPGA-based communications architectures.
o Guide PCB layout with considerations for RF and high-speed digital circuits.
• Antenna Engineering
o Design and evaluate satellite antennas including:
 S-band and X-band patch and patch array antennas
 K-band horn antennas
 VHF monopole and Yagi antennas
o Simulate antenna patterns using tools such as HFSS.
o Participate in antenna testing and pattern measurement campaigns.
• Electromagnetic Compatibility
o Participate in subsystem and spacecraft EMC/EMI testing and implement mitigation strategies.
o Ensure compliance with electromagnetic emissions and susceptibility requirements.
• Ground Systems Integration
o Define ground station requirements.
o Support regulatory processes including frequency licensing for satellites and ground stations.
• Technical Advisory
o Serve as the internal technical authority for satellite communications challenges.
o Provide expert troubleshooting when system performance issues arise.
o Support engineering teams with deep RF and satellite communications insight.
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Qualifications:
Experience
• At least 10+ years of experience in satellite communications, aerospace RF systems, or space communications engineering.
Technical Expertise
• Strong experience in several of the following areas:
o RF communication systems
o Satellite communications
o Space-qualified electronics
o High-speed digital systems
o FPGA-based communications architectures
o Antenna design and RF simulation
o Space environment testing (radiation, thermal, vacuum)
Education
• Master’s or PhD preferred in:
o Electrical Engineering
o Aerospace Engineering
o Physics
o Communications Engineering
Eligibility
• Candidate must be from a NATO-friendly country
• Relocation and work permit support available for the right candidate.
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Compensation & Benefits
• Salary: Up to $200K per year, commensurate with experience
• RRSP Matching: Employee contributes up to 5% of annual salary, with the company matching at 2:1 (company contributes up to 10%)
• Vacation: 4 weeks of paid vacation, plus 1 week of paid company shutdown during the Christmas holidays
• Benefits: 100% employer-paid extended health, dental, and vision coverage
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About SFL Missions Inc.
SFL Missions Inc. is a world-leading developer of small satellite missions, providing innovative, high-performance spacecraft solutions for commercial, government, and academic customers around the globe. Since its founding in 1998, SFL has built a reputation for delivering reliable, cost-effective satellites that have collectively logged hundreds of years in orbit while supporting Earth observation, communications, environmental monitoring, scientific research, defense, and technology demonstration missions.

Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, SFL has successfully developed and launched more than 100 spacecraft for clients across six continents. The company is recognized for pushing the boundaries of small satellite technology, enabling organizations to achieve ambitious space missions with speed, innovation, and exceptional engineering excellence.

At SFL, engineers work on the complete lifecycle of spacecraft development—from concept and design through integration, testing, launch, and on-orbit operations. The collaborative, multidisciplinary environment provides the opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges while contributing directly to missions that have a global impact.

As part of the growing commercial space industry, SFL continues to invest in next-generation satellite technologies and innovative mission architectures. Joining SFL means becoming part of a highly respected team where your expertise will influence real spacecraft, real missions, and the future of space exploration.
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Why Join SFL?
• Work on spacecraft and satellite missions that are launched into orbit and operated by customers worldwide.
• Collaborate with some of Canada's leading aerospace and satellite engineers in a highly technical, innovation-driven environment.
• Contribute across the entire spacecraft lifecycle—from concept development to launch and mission operations.
• Solve technically challenging problems using cutting-edge technologies.
• Be part of a company with an international reputation for innovation, engineering excellence, and mission success.
• Enjoy opportunities for professional growth while helping shape the future of commercial and government space missions.
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Compliance & Equity Statement
This posting reflects a current employment opportunity. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, family status, or any other protected ground under applicable provincial and federal human rights legislation.

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all stages of the recruitment and selection process. Applicants requiring accommodation are encouraged to notify the recruiter so appropriate arrangements can be made.

The salary range listed in this posting represents the expected compensation for this position based on market conditions and internal considerations. Final compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate’s experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role requirements.

The recruitment process may include interviews, reference checks, and verification of relevant qualifications or experience. All personal information collected during the recruitment process will be handled in accordance with applicable privacy and employment legislation.

Any tools used in the recruitment process are applied in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in Canada.