Learn About Satellite Companies in Canada (With Examples)
By Indeed Editorial Team
Published June 5, 2022
The Indeed Editorial Team comprises a diverse and talented team of writers, researchers and subject matter experts equipped with Indeed's data and insights to deliver useful tips to help guide your career journey.
Telecommunications, satellites, and space technology are thriving industries in Canada, with new companies entering the satellite business regularly. Satellite is now one of the leading methods of information transmission and storage globally, resulting in employment opportunities in many industries. Learning about some of the different satellite companies in Canada can help you find an organization that aligns with your plans.
In this article, we explore a list of 10 companies with satellite businesses in the country for you to peruse.
10 satellite companies in Canada
10 of the satellite companies in Canada, and details of their operations, include:
1. Spire
Size: 11-50 employees
Industry: Information technology, aviation, and aerospace manufacturing
Description: The company exactEarth, recently acquired by Spire, uses satellite data to provide global maritime vessel tracking. It supplies third-party companies with awareness solutions based on modern surveillance technology called Satellite-AIS. It provides operational data on marine vessels from a distance, reducing interference from terrestrial issues. It uses a constellation of satellites that connect to ground facilities, then relies on a patented decoding algorithm to process information and get practical insights. The organization has employees across the globe in mechanical engineering, aeronautics technology, and software development.
Employees at exactEarth can benefit from many perks, including:
Flexible and unlimited vacation policy
Opportunity to name your own satellite
Focus on parental and family leave
Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
Retirement resources and financial planning
Support for ongoing professional development
2. Telesat Canada
Size: 201-500 employees
Industry: Telecommunications
Description: Founded in 1969, Telesat Canada is a satellite communications organization that has headquarters in Ottawa, in addition to its offices in the United States and Brazil. It provides industry-leading satellite connectivity options that address current communications challenges. With robust satellite architecture and a network of partners across the globe, Telesat Canada focuses on streamlining the flow of information despite terrestrial barriers. The company employs space and network engineers, legal and sales professionals, and business development experts. Using a collaborative approach, the company ensures regulatory compliance and continuing growth.
Employees of Telesat Canada can benefit from:
Vacation time and paid holidays
Company-matched pension opportunities
Comprehensive benefits package
Competitive pay structure
3. TerreStar Solutions Inc.
Size: Fewer than 10 employees
Industry: Information technology
Description: Commencing operations in 2014 upon the approval of the TerreStar spectrum license, this Canadian satellite company provides radio services to terrestrial subscribers. It provides services to all regions in the country that it can reasonably access and offers subscription radio to customers. Based in Outremont Quebec, its main client is Strigo Mobile, which relies on geostationary satellite and ground-based technology to provide internet access to remote clients. With employees in market intelligence, technology development, communications, and financial accounting, TerreStar Solutions Inc. has a diverse team.
Employees of this company can benefit from:
Collaborative work opportunities
Competitive remuneration structure
Comprehensive benefits package
Vacation days and paid holidays
4. Ciel Satellite Group
Size: Fewer than 10 employees
Industry: Telecommunications and information technology
Description: Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, the Ciel Satellite Group is a private business that opened in 2004. It relies on Borealis Infrastructure, a software system, and the satellite operator SES. It includes 70 satellites in two orbital patterns that provide high-quality data solutions to global customers. The satellite group broadcasts to over a billion people and supports over 50 government organizations with security services. With a focus on aerospace engineering and telecommunications, the company provides many employment opportunities. These include communications technicians, network engineers, and growth marketers.
Employees of Ciel, and its partner, SES, can benefit from:
Opportunities for professional development
Positive work environment
Comprehensive health benefits
Focus on diversity and inclusion
Competitive remuneration structure
5. Ligado Networks
Size: 51-200 employees
Industry: Telecommunications and information technology
Description: Focused on providing 5G connectivity options to meet the increasing demands of the digital world, Ligado has a network of satellites that provide efficient and secure connections. Managing mobile public and private networks, Ligado also works with the Internet of Things (IoT) to provide industry-leading services. With services extending to satellite radio and push-to-talk services, the company uses satellite technology to connect clients quickly. The business has a wide range of clients, including government agencies that use it to communicate during disaster management situations. The company has many employees, with common opportunities in cybersecurity, 5G engineering, and software maintenance.
Among the benefits employees of Ligado can receive include:
Employee assistance program
Flexible spending account
Paid time off and vacation days
RRSP-matching program
Parental leave accommodations
Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
Tuition assistance for professional development
Life and disability insurance
View open jobs
Read more: 14 Fields of Computer Science to Explore as a Career Choice
6. Canadian Space Agency
Size: 501-1,000 employees
Industry: Aerospace and defence
Description: Founded in 1989, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) was initially a parliamentary act that took effect in 1990. Its purpose is to develop and apply space knowledge for the benefit of the country and its citizens. The company relies on a complex network of satellites and telescopes to research aerospace and contribute to the development of exploration technology. The CSA provides a range of career opportunities for interns, students, and advanced professionals. Some common positions include astrophysicists, health science experts, engineers and developers, and design specialists.
Employees of the CSA can benefit from:
Supportive work environment
Ample opportunity to grow
Comprehensive benefits plan
Competitive remuneration structure
7. University of Toronto
Size: More than 10,000 employees
Industry: Education and research
Description: Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is a public research organization based in Ontario. It is a qualified operator of satellite technology for research purposes under Canadian law. The university aims to use aerospace technology to provide telecommunication services worldwide. It offers internet-providing satellites with an aim to decrease the size of the technology to expand the internet beyond the terrestrial. Equipped with a space flight laboratory, the professionals at the University of Toronto collaborate to improve the function and reliability of satellites. Employment opportunities include positions in astrophysics, engineering, and software development.
University of Toronto employees that work with the satellite company it operates can benefit from:
Health, vision, and dental care
Disability and life insurance
Employee and family assistance plan
Support for work-life balance
Competitive compensation structure
Professional development opportunities
Child care reimbursement
Group pensions and retirement support
Read more: 24 of the Best Part-Time Jobs for University Students
8. MDA Systems Ltd.
Size: 1,001-5,000 employees
Industry: Aerospace and defence
Description: Based in Canada since its inception in 1969, MDA Systems Ltd. partners with international space missions, robotics, and satellite networks to enhance Earth observation, improve communication, and develop space. MDA uses a technology called Chorus, a multi-sensor satellite network to provide real-time data on terrestrial events. It participates in the gateway outpost project, a mission to develop the moon, by partnering with the Canadian Space Agency to create an artificial intelligence robot arm. MDA regularly expands and pursues talented employees in various areas, including quality assurance, engineering, operations, and business development.
Employees of MDA Systems Ltd. can benefit from:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Life and disability insurance
Stock options and equity
Company-supported pension
Performance bonuses
Flexible schedules
Remote work opportunities
Vacations and paid time off
Free snacks and lunch
Employee assistance program
Gym membership
Paid tuition and training
9. Magellan Aerospace
Size: 5,001-10,000 employees
Industry: Aerospace and defence
Description: A global enterprise with roots in Canada, Magellan Aerospace offers complex satellite assembly services and systems solutions. Working with aircraft and engine manufacturers, it provides services to facilitate industrial energy generation, military agencies, and aerostructure. The broad applications of the Magellan satellite business create many employment opportunities in technical roles, engineering, systems planning, and security. With a focus on ethical practises, respect, and integrity, it promotes professional development for all positions.
Employees of Magellan Aerospace can benefit from:
Health and dental insurance
Life and disability coverage
Company-supported pension
Read more: How Much Does an Aerospace Engineer Make in Canada?
10. Infostat Communications
Size: 11-50 employees
Industry: Information technology
Description: An advanced telecommunications company that relies on satellite technology, Infosat offers automated sensor monitoring and secure IT networks. It aims to provide end-to-end solutions to meet unique communication needs for clients, including remote workplace support. The company has interests in disaster preparedness, using satellite information to provide timely information on risk. Infosat works in retail to remove the point-of-sale redundancies, in trucking to provide continuous connectivity, and in the oil and gas sector to promote safety through automation. The diverse functions result in many job opportunities for systems engineers, product development, and business professionals.
Employees of this company can benefit from:
Comprehensive benefits package
Support for work-life balance
Participation in a tax-free savings account
Opportunity for professional growth
Collaborative company culture
Please note that none of the companies, institutions, or organizations mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
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