Senior Space Mission Systems Specialist (12-month contract)

GHGSat delivers critical insights about our planet using cutting-edge remote sensing technologies across air and space. As a pioneer in the commercialization of space-based greenhouse gas detection, we provide high-resolution, low-latency emissions data and analytics to industrial and government customers worldwide. By combining data from our proprietary satellite constellation, aircraft sensors, and third-party sources, we empower organizations to better understand, quantify, and reduce their environmental impact.

Building on this foundation, GHGSat is expanding its capabilities through the development of next-generation space missions, broadening our product portfolio and delivering integrated, system-level Earth observation solutions for government and commercial partners.

Reporting to the Manager of Space Systems Operations, the Senior Space Mission Systems Specialist plays a central role in shaping and delivering these capabilities. You will lead systems-level design, engineering, and mission monitoring across the expansion of our current constellation, the development of next-generation missions, and government programs. Collaborating alongside experts in satellite operations, software, and instrumentation, you will help define and integrate end-to-end mission architectures that drive quality, scalability, and impact.

The position is based out of one of our Canadian offices in Montreal, Ottawa, or Calgary; however, remote working options will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Occasional travel within Canada and internationally may be required to support key program milestones. This is a 12-month contract position with the possibility of extension at the end of the contract period.

Responsibilities

For GHGSat’s current mission:

• Lead mission engineering activities to support the reliable and cost-effective scaling of GHGSat’s operational satellite constellation, driving system-level performance to increase reliability, reduce operational cost, and enhance mission responsiveness
• Develop and enhance automated monitoring and health management capabilities for space and ground segment systems
• Analyze and optimize ground segment utilization, including ground station scheduling, data downlink strategies, and network performance
• Support spacecraft development and integration activities, including design reviews, AIT, and system-level validation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with satellite operations, embedded software, payload, and ground systems teams to ensure end-to-end system performance

For new mission development:

• Lead mission concept development and early-phase design activities, including defining high-level system concepts and architecture to fulfill mission objectives
• Own systems engineering activities across the full mission lifecycle, from concept and preliminary design through integration, verification, and operational readiness
• Define and manage system and spacecraft level requirements, ensuring traceability from user needs through to subsystem specifications and verification plans
• Conduct system-level modelling, performance analyses, and tradespace analyses to support design decisions, optimize performance, and provide inputs to program management
• Support verification of the mission and spacecraft requirements through testing, analysis, and validation
• Collaborate with stakeholders (including customers) to refine mission requirements and present technical solutions
• Support proposal development and technical sales efforts, including solution definition and requirement discussions

Requirements

• Strong understanding of systems engineering principles, including requirements definition, traceability, verification, and validation
• Demonstrated ability to work across space and ground segments, with an appreciation for end-to-end mission performance
• Experience developing or applying mission concepts of operations (CONOPS) and operational workflows
• Proficiency in system-level analysis, modelling, and performance evaluation, including use of tools such as Systems Tool Kit (STK)
• Familiarity with satellite subsystems, satellite operations, telemetry analysis, and anomaly resolution
• Understanding of ground segment architecture, including ground stations, communications links, and data flows
• Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex technical challenges into practical solutions
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to engage both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders, including customers
• Experience supporting design reviews, integration, and validation activities
• Willingness to work in an on-call rotation during off-hours to support anomaly responses, if required
• Ability to obtain clearance under the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP)

Desired Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in systems engineering, mission engineering, or a related role within satellite or space-based programs
• Experience supporting one or more phases of the space mission lifecycle (e.g., concept development, design, integration, operations)
• A degree in engineering, physics, computer science, aerospace, or a related technical field

Great to haves:

• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas:
1. Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS)
2. Flight dynamics / propulsion / orbit analysis
3. RF systems and/or interference analysis
• Experience with Earth observation missions or data products
• Exposure to regulatory or spectrum coordination considerations
• Experience with automation, scripting, or operations tooling (e.g., Python or similar)
• Familiarity with proposal development or customer-facing technical work

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Full comprehensive benefits
• Statutory leave + paid time off
• Flexible work environment
  

GHGSat offers a creative and highly-motivating work environment. We offer competitive salaries, health and social benefits including flex-time and continuing development. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. GHGSat is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or other legally protected status. If you would like to request an accommodation, please notify your Recruiter.