Solutions Architect - DoD & IC, Kepler US
Sterling, Virginia
Business Development – Government & Defense /
Full-time Regular /
Hybrid
At Kepler Communications, we're not just imagining the future of connectivity - we're leading it!
Our mission is to provide real-time Internet access in space, enabling a new era of data-driven exploration and innovation. With 23 satellites already launched and a next-generation optical network on the way, we’re creating the infrastructure that will power the space economy for decades to come.
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 designed to recognize and reward your contributions.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance—including dependents.
- 401(k) and an annual Wellness Allowance.
- Unlimited vacation, supportive parental leave policy, and company-wide holiday shutdown.
- Semi-annual company-wide parties and regular (virtual and team events.
- Relocation packages available for approved roles.
- $1,500 annual professional development fund to support your growth.
- Town Halls, Celebration Calls and Frequent company-wide events to stay connected and engaged.
Kepler Communications US is seeking a Solutions Architect to partner with the Business Development team, engage with customers to understand their mission needs, and develop solutions for them. Working under the Technical Director of Kepler US, the Solutions Architect will be the customer-facing technical point of contact to the DoD and Intelligence community.
As part of a small, passionate, and accomplished team of experts, you will also participate in the strategic development of Kepler offerings, customer relationships, and strategic vision – laser-focused on the Kepler vision of putting the internet in space.
The ideal candidate has experience working with government and commercial customers, an existing network of relevant industry contacts, and a solid understanding of government and commercial drivers of success in the space sector. The candidate can readily synthesize technical requirements from the customer and marry them with the capabilities of the Kepler Optical Relay Network and Space Systems product line.
The role is ideal for a driven aerospace professional, with technical expertise in architecting satellite systems and solutions and a deep understanding of RF and optical communications, looking to advance their career within a fast-growing company at the cutting edge of space systems and optical communications technology.
Day-to-day Activities:
- Support customer meetings and provide architectural guidance and technical recommendations to promote the Kepler offering
- Create and deliver customer-facing presentations and white papers to shape future requirements
- Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders including chief engineers, research scientists, program managers, contracting officers, and prime contractors
- Collaborate with the Kepler Engineering and Business Development teams to design and define solutions that meet customer requirements
Product & Operations:
- Guide strategic product road maps and internal research & development to achieve product market fit
- Help maintain and update Salesforce account and opportunity information
Proposal Development:
- Lead technical writing of proposals and responses to requests for information and other customer inquiries
- Conduct black hat reviews of competitors to guide the capture strategy; stay abreast of industry trends and disruptors
Travel and Marketing:
- Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and government meetings
- Travel approximately 25-30% of the time, mostly domestic with some international travel
- Support the Public Relations team on their press releases, marketing materials, and social media accounts
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in STEM or related field
- 10+ years of experience in satellite communications, preferably including experience in optical communications
- At least 5 years’ experience in business development capture support in the space or defense sectors
- Previous responsibility for writing customer-facing technical communications, preferably in aerospace technical sales
- Familiarity with commercial and US Government aerospace procurement and proposal processes
- Must be a US citizen with active US Department of Defense TS/SCI clearance
- Able to regularly report into the Sterling, VA office
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Proficiency with Salesforce, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc
Bonus Points:
- Master's degree or PhD in a STEM field
- Experience selling to the Space Force, NRO, SDA, DIU, Navy, Army, etc.
- Experience in the New Space industry
Use of AI in Recruitment
At Kepler Communications, all hiring decisions are made by people. Human recruiters are involved in every step of our recruitment process. We use AI-based tools (such as Lever AI and HireEZ) to assist with the initial review of applications by ranking candidates based on job-relevant criteria. These tools support - but do not replace - human judgment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Kepler is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact our People & Culture team at accommodation@kepler.space, and we will work with you to meet your needs.
