Senior Director, LEO Satellite Operations

About the role

The Senior Director, LEO Satellite Operations will define and own the operational framework for the Lightspeed constellation, establishing the foundational architecture for its control, reliability, security, and efficiency. This executive role is responsible for the end-to-end management of the satellite mission, from initial deployment and orbital insertion through to steady-state operations and eventual retirement. The Director will translate complex technical requirements into executable control room procedures and operational workflows, acting as the primary technical authority for on-orbit activities. They will oversee the detailed design of operations concepts, managing the critical transition phases from launch and early orbit operations through the handover to nominal, steady-state service. A core duty involves building the foundational training infrastructure for the Satellite Operations team, including developing a robust curriculum and comprehensive library of simulation scenarios. The role requires close partnership with network product and engineering teams to ensure service models align with operational realities and customer expectations. Ultimately, this position will establish control room standards, defining monitoring protocols, alerting thresholds, and response procedures to ensure clarity and consistency during all operational events. The Director will also guide strategic planning for satellite retirement and end-of-life disposal, ensuring service continuity is maintained throughout the transition.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Establish the operational framework for the Lightspeed constellation, defining systems, processes, and team capabilities for the mission lifecycle.
• Translate complex technical specifications into executable control room procedures and operational workflows for satellite constellation management.
• Oversee the detailed design of operations concepts, defining constellation behavior across various scenarios and mission phases.
• Manage the critical transition phases from launch and early orbit operations through handover to nominal, steady-state service.
• Develop and implement control room standards, monitoring protocols, alerting thresholds, and response procedures for operational events.
• Build the foundational training infrastructure, including curriculum development and a comprehensive library of simulation scenarios for operators.
• Partner closely with network product and engineering teams to align service models with operational realities and evolving customer expectations.
• Create and oversee verification routines that validate ground software, hardware, and satellite performance against strict reliability and security criteria.
• Coordinate with external partners for tracking, telemetry, and command services essential for safe and continuous constellation operations.
• Guide the strategic planning for satellite retirement and end-of-life disposal to ensure service continuity throughout the transition.
• Serve as the primary technical authority for on-orbit activities, reporting to the highest levels of the organization.
• Ensure the security and efficiency of the constellation by establishing robust frameworks for ground system verification and operational integrity.

Requirements

• Possess a proven track record of directing satellite operations for commercial constellations across multiple mission phases, from launch through operations.
• Demonstrate a deep technical understanding of orbital mechanics, station-keeping maneuvers, and LEO payload configuration essential for performing this role effectively.
• Exhibit the ability to interpret intricate technical specifications and convert them into clear, actionable operational procedures and checklists.
• Hold an active security clearance or be eligible for one, as the position requires the judgment to manage classified aspects of the program.
• Commit to working onsite at the Telesat headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario, five days per week to ensure close collaboration with cross-functional teams and leadership.
• Be capable of defining control room standards, monitoring protocols, and alerting thresholds that ensure clarity and consistency during all operational events.
• Have the experience to develop comprehensive training curricula and simulation scenarios that prepare operators for standard and off-nominal events.
• Understand the necessity of coordinating with external partners for tracking, telemetry, and command services to maintain safe operations.

Nice to have

• Preferred items are not specified for this role.

Practical notes

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Location: Ottawa, Ontario.

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Engagement: Full-time Hire with benefits.

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Compensation: Target annual range is $250,000 to $320,000 USD.

• Work Arrangement: Requires onsite presence at Telesat headquarters five days per week.
• Application Details: Refer to the official application page on the Telesat careers website for complete details.