LEO Satellite Controller

Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT) is a leading global satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite-delivered communications solutions worldwide to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers for over 55 years. Backed by a legacy of engineering excellence, reliability and industry-leading customer service, Telesat has grown to be one of the largest and most successful global satellite operators.

Telesat Lightspeed, our revolutionary Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, scheduled to begin service in 2027, will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise and Government users by delivering a combination of high capacity, security, resiliency and affordability with ultra-low latency and fiber-like speeds. Telesat is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, and has offices and facilities around the world.

The company’s state-of-the-art Satellite fleet consists of 12 GEO satellites, the Canadian payload on ViaSat-1 and one LEO 3 demonstration satellite. For more information, follow Telesat on X and LinkedIn or visit www.telesat.com

As a member of the LEO Satellite Operations team, the LEO Satellite Controller will monitor, and control satellites and perform all scheduled and non-scheduled activities associated with the operation of Telesat Lightspeed satellites. The LEO Satellite Controller works 24 hours a day at the Telesat Lightspeed Satellite Operations Center; he collaborates closely with the Flight Operations Engineer to operate the satellite control systems that execute and monitor satellite activities; he responds to satellite or system anomalies and reports on them.

Main Responsibilities Perform all scheduled and non-scheduled activities associated with the operation of Telesat Lightspeed satellites;

• Participate in all scheduled and non-scheduled satellite operations activities related to the maintenance and development of ground control equipment and satellite control systems;
• Monitor and analyze telemetry data generated by the satellites to detect any anomalies and take appropriate measures as needed;
• Prepare, upload, and monitor orbit and attitude maneuvers in accordance with established procedures;

Ensure the precise preparation and planning of satellite activities as provided by other satellite operations groups;

• Ensure the validation and reporting of failures for all hardware, software, and auxiliary equipment of the satellite control systems;
• Recognize, report, and determine the appropriate response to all satellite or ground anomalies in a timely manner, implementing appropriate emergency procedures for the satellites and other specified instructions;
• Provide detailed reports and supporting documentation for all satellite anomalies, equipment failures, software issues, and communication outages;
• Maintain a high level of proficiency in the use of operations systems and computer programs, as well as specialized custom-designed computer programs and analysis tools used at the Satellite Control Center.

Education and Experience

• At least a three (3) year technologist diploma in communications, electrical, or electronic engineering, or equivalent;
• Knowledge of satellite control systems is an asset;
• Basic knowledge of satellite subsystem design and orbits is an asset;
• Strong skills in analysis, problem-solving, real-time decision-making, planning, and organization;
• Excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written;
• Knowledge of French, both oral and written, is an asset;
• Self-motivated and capable of working effectively both individually and as part of a team.

Skills, Decision-Making, and Supervision

• Strong ability to follow technical satellite operations procedures;
• Ability to work without supervision and lead a small team;
• Ability to work closely with the Flight Operations Engineer;
• Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, as the Satellite Controller interacts intensively with the satellite operations engineering teams as well as other segments of the Lightspeed system;
• Ability to remain vigilant at all times in an environment where situational awareness and operational excellence are crucial to maintaining the health of the Lightspeed satellite constellation;
• Ability to react quickly and accurately to satellite anomalies; be very attentive to a number of visual and auditory alarms;
• It is necessary to pay constant attention to printed texts, computer screens, and information transmitted verbally by colleagues, managers, and numerous technical experts who regularly interact with the Satellite Operations Center;
• Excellent time management skills in a multitasking environment;
• Ability to learn continuously through self-study and on-the-job training;
• Proficiency in software tools; programming and development skills are considered an asset.

The selected candidate must possess (or be eligible to obtain) a CGP security clearance. The workplace is located at our main Satellite Operations Center (SOC) in Gatineau, or at our secondary SOC in Ottawa, located approximately 3 km away. Overtime premiums are paid for covering work after normal hours, weekends, and holidays, as well as some additional hours, as required.

At Telesat, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values equity in the workplace. We are committed to providing the best possible experience to all candidates, including implementing accommodation measures at every stage of our interview process. All qualified candidates selected for an interview and requiring accommodation are invited to inform the Telesat recruitment team. We will work with you to meet your needs. All information provided regarding accommodation will be treated confidentially.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to facilitate certain steps in the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or evaluating responses, as well as to identify potential inconsistencies or verification clues in the application documents based on the available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information on how your data is processed, please contact us.

LEO Satellite Controller