Supply Chain Manager

About Kepler Communications

Kepler Communications is building the future of always-on space connectivity. The company provides real-time internet access for assets in orbit and is helping enable a new generation of data-rich exploration and innovation. With 33 satellites already launched, Kepler runs the first commercial optical data relay constellation, supporting continuous space communications as well as advanced on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities.

Beyond the technology, Kepler emphasizes the strength of its team: inventive builders, sharp problem-solvers, and people who enjoy pushing what space systems can do. The company values diverse perspectives and aims to offer an environment where people can grow, take ownership, and contribute to meaningful global impact.

If you want to work at a fast pace on technology that helps shape the future space economy, this role is designed for you.

Role Overview

As Supply Chain Manager, you will own procurement, supplier management, and material readiness across satellite programs from end to end. You will connect engineering, program management, and external suppliers so that projects move smoothly from prototype development through constellation-scale production. This is a strategic and execution-heavy role that combines technical understanding, supplier partnership, and strong operational follow-through in a dynamic space environment.

Core Responsibilities

• Build and execute supply chain approaches that support program needs.
• Drive new product introduction work for complex electromechanical parts and assemblies from early stages to production readiness.
• Lead sourcing efforts for internal product teams developing spacecraft subsystems and customer hardware.
• Identify supply chain exposures and put contingency plans in place.
• Evaluate suppliers and components using cost analysis, total cost of ownership, and make-or-buy assessments.
• Create procurement plans and implement sourcing strategies across multiple products and programs.
• Own procurement activities from supplier selection through delivery to the program.
• Manage procurement-related risks, including supplier financial and schedule concerns, and develop mitigation plans.
• Collect bids and run review discussions with program leaders and key stakeholders.
• Align sourcing plans with technical product requirements.
• Prepare negotiation strategies based on business needs.
• Handle supplier onboarding and keep approved supplier lists current.
• Drive cost optimization across parts and suppliers, including equipment spend and savings opportunities.
• Place tactical purchase orders for commodities, services, and equipment.
• Manage supplier due diligence and onboarding activities.
• Serve as the main supplier contact for delivery schedule checks, discrepancy resolution, and escalation of delays.
• Contribute to supplier scorecards and department KPI tracking.
• Strengthen supplier relationships to improve reliability and responsiveness.
• Spot and reduce supplier-related technical and program risks.
• Partner with Quality to resolve supplier non-conformances and confirm corrective actions are completed effectively.
• Own assigned engineering work packages to keep the bill of materials controlled and support timely supply flow.
• Influence design choices by recommending practical and cost-effective solutions early in the process.
• Work closely with technical teams to speed up and de-risk procurement of long-lead and EEE components.
• Lead Clear to Build reviews.
• Coordinate BoM Readiness Reviews, Manufacturing Readiness Reviews, and Test Readiness Reviews.
• Join production standups and share expected deliveries, delays, and other important updates.
• Align schedules and deliverables with operations teams.
• Support ERP improvements and maintain accurate data for better visibility and decision-making.
• Help create scalable tools and processes that support growth toward larger constellation production.
• Identify opportunities to automate or digitize supply chain data collection.
• Support implementation of an inventory management system.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or Business Administration.
• At least 3 years of experience in supply chain management, engineering, or a closely related engineering-adjacent role.
• Hands-on experience sourcing medium to high complexity electro-mechanical and electrical components, along with small to medium assemblies.
• Working knowledge of mechanical or electrical engineering concepts relevant to component procurement.
• Understanding of manufacturing or fabrication processes for mechanical or electrical components, including PCB/PCBA.
• Experience using ERP, procurement, or MRP systems.
• Ability to assess sourcing, program, and technical risks when moving a product from development into production.
• Experience creating automated and scalable reporting methods.

Bonus Experience

• Experience with NetSuite ERP.
• A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or another relevant field.
• Background in space, aerospace, or another highly complex hardware environment.
• Experience with CGP, ITAR, EAR, or Controlled Goods sourcing and procurement requirements.
• Track record of building scalable and sustainable processes and tools.
• Lean Six Sigma or PMP certification.
• Ability to read and analyze engineering drawings and 3D models.
• Familiarity with supplier terms, master supplier agreements, pricing structures, lead times, warranty terms, quality standards, and delivery terms.

Compensation

The posted salary range for this position is CAD 70,666 to CAD 95,666. Final total compensation will be decided by the company and may take into account relevant knowledge, skills, experience, performance, education, and training. Applicants are encouraged to apply even if their expectations differ from the stated range, since total compensation may include more than base salary.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive pay with a strong equity component.
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.
• Unlimited vacation, a supportive parental leave policy, and a company-wide holiday shutdown.
• Semi-annual company celebrations and regular in-office events.
• Relocation support for approved positions.
• Annual professional development funding of $1,500.
• A stocked Toronto office kitchen with snacks, drinks, games, and quality appliances.
• Town halls, celebration calls, and company-wide gatherings to keep teams connected.
• Recognition as a certified Great Place to Work for five consecutive years.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodation

Kepler Communications is committed to equal employment opportunity and welcomes candidates from all qualified backgrounds, including women, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, visible minorities, and individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

If you need accommodation during any stage of the hiring process, you may contact the People & Culture team at [email protected] so your needs can be supported.

Recruitment Process Note

Hiring decisions are made by people, and human recruiters are involved throughout the process. The company uses AI-based tools to support the initial review of applications by ranking candidates against job-relevant criteria, but these tools assist rather than replace human judgment.

Additional Information

This is a current vacancy.