Network Technologist (Satellite)

• Location: Ottawa, Ontario
• Type: Direct Hire
• Job #35945

Network Technologist (Satellite)

Location: Ottawa, Ontario – Onsite
Employment: Permanent, Full-Time
Hours: 40 hours per week
Schedule: Rotating shift schedule, including days, evenings and weekends, plus rotational 24/7 on-call coverage
Salary: Starting around $80,000 CAD, with flexibility based on experience
Start: ASAP
Travel: Occasional Canada/U.S. travel
Must Be: Canadian Citizen
Must Have: Valid Canadian Passport

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Network Technologist (Satellite) to provide hands-on technical support for RF and microwave satellite ground-segment communications infrastructure.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in RF, microwave, satellite communications, telecommunications or satellite ground systems who enjoys hands-on troubleshooting and working with mission-critical communications infrastructure.

The environment supports 24/7 satellite network operations across North America, so candidates must be comfortable working scheduled shifts and participating in rotational on-call coverage.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Support 24/7 satellite network operations through scheduled shift work and rotational on-call duties.
• Perform routine maintenance, system verification, troubleshooting and repair of satellite communications equipment.
• Maintain and support satellite antennas, including 11-metre, 7-metre and smaller dish systems.
• Work with RF and microwave equipment, including:
  • TWTA and SSPA amplifiers
  • Upconverters and downconverters
  • RF switching equipment
  • Waveguides and filters
  • High-precision time and frequency references
  • Monitor & Control (M&C) systems
• Analyze RF signals using spectrum analyzers, power meters, oscilloscopes and satellite carrier-monitoring systems.
• Support voice and data services delivered over satellite.
• Monitor and troubleshoot network and telecommunications links.
• Support multiple satellite gateways, with the majority of work performed locally from the Ottawa facility.
• Work with IP networks, routers, switches and telecommunications protocols.
• Perform daily system verification and troubleshoot operational issues.
• Monitor and control remote equipment using SNMP, socket interfaces and other M&C protocols.
• Support antenna tracking systems and associated mechanical infrastructure.
• Create and maintain technical drawings for RF communications equipment.
• Prepare technical reports and maintain Tier-2 operational procedures and documentation.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on network reliability and operational quality.
• Carry a mobile phone while on call and respond to network emergencies when required.
• Occasionally travel to satellite monitoring sites and gateway locations in Canada and the United States.

What We’re Looking For:

• 3-year technical diploma/degree, Associate Degree or equivalent technical education in electronics, telecommunications, RF, networking or a related field.
• Approximately 5+ years of relevant industry experience, ideally involving RF and satellite technologies.
• Hands-on experience with RF, microwave, satellite communications or satellite ground systems.
• Experience operating spectrum analyzers and related RF test equipment.
• Strong diagnostic, troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of IP networks and telecommunications protocols.
• Knowledge of active and passive RF/microwave equipment such as TWTA, SSPA, up/down converters, switching, waveguide and filters.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision while contributing within a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Willingness and ability to work rotating days, evenings and weekends and participate in a 24/7 rotational on-call schedule.
• Ability to occasionally travel within Canada and the United States.
• Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Canadian passport.

Security & Eligibility Requirements

Due to the nature of the satellite communications environment, the successful candidate must meet eligibility requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and applicable ITAR/export-control requirements.

Must hold a Canadian Citizenship with a valid Canadian Passport.

Candidates must be able to provide the required government-issued identification and supporting documentation and consent to applicable background/security screening.

Nice to Have

Any of the following would be considered an asset:

• Linux and experience navigating remote systems through a terminal.
• Programming or scripting experience with Python, Golang, C/C++ or MATLAB.
• Test automation experience.
• Data analysis or visualization experience using Grafana, Splunk, OriginLab, MATLAB or Python.
• Experience with ServiceNow or similar ITIL-based Incident, Change and Problem Management tools.
• Experience with Monitor & Control (M&C) systems.
• Knowledge of SNMP, socket interfaces and remote equipment monitoring/control.
• Experience with IP routers and switches.
• Familiarity with antenna tracking systems.
• Satellite carrier-monitoring experience.

Physical & Working Environment

This is a hands-on technical role supporting physical satellite and telecommunications infrastructure.

The position involves working within office, operations and satellite gateway environments. Candidates must be comfortable occasionally standing, walking, climbing stairs and ladders, accessing satellite dishes and equipment, working at heights, kneeling or crouching, and performing other physical activities associated with maintaining technical infrastructure.

The position may occasionally require lifting or moving equipment weighing up to approximately 40 lbs.

Some operational areas may have moderate-to-high noise levels. Appropriate PPE is provided.

Who Will Succeed in This Role?

We’re looking for someone who combines hands-on RF/satellite technical ability with strong troubleshooting skills, initiative and practical judgment.

You don’t necessarily need to come from a traditional Network Operations Centre background. Candidates from satellite communications, RF/microwave, satellite ground systems, telecommunications, ground stations or similar technical environments are strongly encouraged to apply.

If you enjoy solving technical problems, working directly with communications equipment and supporting critical infrastructure in a team-oriented environment, we’d like to hear from you.