SDN Controller Architect

Gatineau, Quebec
Lightspeed System Development - Landing Stations and User Terminals – Network Operations Software /
Full Time Hire - (FTE with Benefits) /
Hybrid
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 50 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 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 fleet consists of 15 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


The SDN Controller Architect will lead the architectural design of the Constellation Network Operating System and its integration with other Lightspeed systems, in particular the Operational Support System (OSS) and the data plane. CNOS is a temporo-spatial Software Defined Network controller (SDNc) that orchestrates the Lightspeed constellation across land, sea, air and space to satisfy service demands. The SDN Controller Architect will be responsible for the modeling and documentation of the design, the specification of the interfaces with network systems and components, and the definition of integration activities.

Main Responsibilities

    • Develop in-depth knowledge of the Lightspeed constellation requirements, architecture and design specifications.
    • Develop in-depth knowledge of the Constellation Network Operating System requirements, architecture and design specifications.
    • Create technical architecture and design specifications that will drive the network operating system solution to success, while maintaining a view of scope, timeline, and budget.
    • Participate in the design activities of other Lightspeed segments and contribute to the refinement and evolution of the whole system architecture.
    • Lead the implementation of mathematical network control algorithms into robust, highly-available, fault-tolerant, production-grade, real-time software.
    • Provide thought leadership and guidance on resolving complex implementation and solution issues.
    • Identify and mitigate implementation risks through technical best practices.
    • Manage technical aspects of network operations and control systems procurement, from RFP definition, through evaluation of proposals, proofs of concept, detailed designs, implementation, testing and finally operational support.
    • Review and approve design and development solution documents, internal and external test strategies, plans and scripts.
    • Execute modeling, costing and trade analysis.
    • Educate teams on new solutions, best practices, and industry trends.

Education & Experience Required

    • Bachelor's degree in network engineering, software engineering or equivalent practical experience.
    • At least 10 years of relevant industry experience working in network engineering or software engineering, with at least 2 years in an architect position.
    • Experience developing Software Defined Network applications and real-time network controllers in accordance with cloud native architecture principles.
    • Familiarity with virtualization, multi-tenant cloud infrastructures and distributed storage systems.
    • Highly motivated and able to independently drive projects to completion
    • Creative problem-solving skills and strong analytical skills
    • Strong written and oral English communication skills
    • Familiarity with satellite and wireless telecommunications considered an asset.
    • Familiarity with routing algorithms, optimization problems and Machine Learning considered an asset.

Decision Making & Supervision

    • This role requires making recommendations and decisions which will have significant influence on the network operations and control solution of the Telesat Lightspeed network. 
    • This role requires contributions as an individual and a team member. While the role has no direct reports, it is a technical leader role.

Working Conditions

    • Hybrid workplace model with three days a week in the office. This policy is subject to change.  
    • Occasional international travel is anticipated.

The successful candidate must be able to work in Canada and obtain clearance under the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP).

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At Telesat, we take pride in being an equal opportunity employer that values equality in the workplace.   We are committed to providing the best candidate experience possible including any required accommodations at every stage of our interview process.   All qualified applicants that have been selected for an interview that require accommodations, are advised to inform the Telesat Talent team accordingly.  We will work with you to meet your needs.   All accommodation information provided will be treated as confidential.