Senior Legal Counsel – Technology & Trade Compliance

Job description

At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of on-demand space connectivity - we're leading it!

Our mission is to provide real-time on-orbit connectivity for critical missions, enabling a new era of data-driven intelligence and innovation. With 33 satellites launched to date, Kepler operates the first commercial optical data relay constellation, enabling real-time, continuous space communications while supporting advanced on-orbit compute and hosted payload capabilities.

Industry-leading technology is only part of the story. What sets Kepler apart is our team: bold thinkers, skilled builders, and passionate problem-solvers who thrive on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space. We believe great ideas come from diverse perspectives, and we’re committed to creating an environment where you can grow, lead, and make a global impact.

If you’re ready to reach higher, move faster, and do work that shapes the future space economy - this is your launchpad. Come build the future with Kepler!

What We Offer:

* Competitive compensation with a robust equity plan to share in our success.

* Comprehensive coverage for health, dental, and vision insurance—including dependents.

* Unlimited vacation, supportive parental leave policy, and company-wide holiday shutdown.

* Semi-annual company-wide parties and frequent in-office team events.

* Relocation packages available for approved roles.

* $1,500 annual professional development fund to support your growth.

* Fully stocked Toronto office kitchen with snacks, drinks, games and top-notch kitchen appliances.

* Town Halls, Celebration Calls, and Company-wide events to stay connected and engaged.

* We’re a certified Great Place to Work®, seven years in a row!

As Senior Legal Counsel – Technology & Trade Compliance, this isn’t your typical legal position. At Kepler, you’ll be embedded in a fast-moving team, helping to shape how we operate globally by balancing legal precision with bold innovation. You’ll provide hands-on legal expertise across a vast array of commercial agreements and government engagements, all while supporting cutting-edge space technology projects.

As we push the boundaries of space-based connectivity, your work will ensure Kepler remains not only compliant but competitive in a highly regulated and technically complex landscape. Your decisions will directly influence how we launch, partner, build, and operate globally.

Key Responsibilities:

Technology & Commercial Contracting

- Draft, negotiate, and review a wide variety of commercial and technology contracts, including NDAs, software licenses, supplier/vendor agreements, and customer agreements

- Support Kepler’s intellectual property strategy development

- Serve as a legal point of contact for engineering, project management, business development, regulatory, and supply chain teams for contracting and operational legal issues

 Government Contracting & Proposals

- Support negotiations and compliance for government contracts and funding agreements in Canada (ISED, CSA), the United States (NASA, SDA), and Europe (ESA)

- Review and advise on flow down requirements, IP provisions, export controls, and other government terms

- Provide legal support on RFP responses, grant applications, and strategic proposals, working closely with business development and program teams

Legal Advisory

- Provide strategic legal counsel to internal teams on contractual and governance matters

- Advise on legal matters across a broad range of corporate initiatives, coordinating with external counsel as needed

- Support Kepler’s internal compliance programs, including those related to privacy, data governance, and information security

 Training & Policy Development

- Draft and maintain internal legal procedures, manuals, and compliance protocols

- Contribute to team knowledge-sharing and build scalable legal operations and document templates, leveraging Kepler’s AI solutions

Required Skills & Qualifications:

- JD or LLB degree with license to practice law in Ontario (or eligibility to be licensed)

- 5+ years of relevant experience in related legal and compliance functions

- Exceptional judgment and integrity

- Strong negotiator and communicator, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to diverse audiences and effectively engage with stakeholders at various levels

- Willingness to work on projects of all types and resourcefulness to bring legal expertise on a variety of topics

- Demonstrated ability to independently draft and negotiate a range of commercial and technology contracts

- Ability to work hybrid 3+ days in our Toronto HQ

Bonus Points:

- Expertise in export controls and international trade law

- Demonstrated expertise in Canadian CGP and U.S. ITAR/EAR frameworks

- Experience acting as a Designated Official under the CGP or equivalent role

- Experience in the aerospace, satellite, or defense industry

- Familiarity with OFAC sanctions, dual-use technology, and international treaties

- Privacy and data protection experience

- Bilingual (English/French) is an asset

- Security clearance or eligibility to obtain one

Actual total compensation will be determined at the Company’s discretion and is based on a variety of job-related factors, which may include, but are not limited to, relevant knowledge, skills, experience, performance, and education and/or training. The Company encourages all qualified applicants to apply, even if the posted salary range does not align with their expectations, as it does not reflect our total compensation package.Job Type: This is for a current vacancy

Employment Equity & Accommodation Statement

Kepler Communications is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please contact our People & Culture team at [email protected], and we will work with you to meet your needs.