Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions

Full Time

Ottawa, OntarioPosted 8 weeks ago

Role Overview

Telesat is hiring a Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions. This is a full-time role in Ottawa, Ontario. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.

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Job description

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

Are you passionate about breakthrough technologies and eager to shape the future of satellite-based solutions for defence and national security? At Telesat, we’re redefining satellite communications through our cutting-edge Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network, Telesat Lightspeed.

As R&D Director, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions, you will lead the development of advanced, mission-driven satellite capabilities tailored to the evolving needs of Canadian and allied defence users. This includes identifying emerging operational requirements, architecting secure and resilient technical solutions, overseeing prototyping and validation, and driving commercialization of capabilities such as Space Domain Awareness, Alternative PNT, Optical Communications, and more. Initially, this role is expected to lead a small team of individual contributors, with the potential for team growth over time.

This strategic role operates at the intersection of technology, defence policy, and innovation, ensuring Telesat remains a trusted partner in space-based national security. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, a valid Top Secret security clearance is required.

Resource is expected to be working onsite at Telesat HQ, 5 days per week

About Telesat

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions position at Telesat?

Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Telesat. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.

Where is the Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions position at Telesat located?

This position is based in Ottawa, Ontario. Telesat has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.

What does a Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions at Telesat earn?

Telesat has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.

When was the Director, Research & Development, Defence Satellite Mission Solutions role at Telesat posted?

This role was posted on May 26, 2026 (58 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.