Vice President, Spaceport Development and Operations

Vice President, Spaceport Development and Operations

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia / Canso, Nova Scotia

Maritime Launch Services is a Canadian-owned commercial space company based in Nova Scotia. Maritime Launch is developing Spaceport Nova Scotia, Canada’s first commercial orbital launch complex.

Role Overview:

As the Vice President of Spaceport Development and Operations, you will direct the design, build and operations of Spaceport Nova Scotia, located near Canso, Nova Scotia.

As a member of the Executive Team, you will develop and lead a multidisciplinary technical and support staff and speciality contractors with responsibility for the design, development, coordination, and execution of all spaceport activities, ensuring operational requirements are met, compliance with federal, provincial and other regulatory requirements and maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Your role will be crucial in driving the success of team development as we transition from initial construction to commissioning and into full operational launch cadence for multiple launch vehicles and classes.

This is a high-impact leadership position that will shape the future of Maritime Launch’s spaceport operations, drive innovation, and influence industry standards in Canada’s space sector. This role positions you at the forefront of a Canadian first and in a rapidly growing global space industry.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement the strategic vision and technical roadmap to reach full spaceport operations, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.
  • Lead and manage all spaceport activities, including launch site development, ground systems operations, flight hardware integration, and launch client coordination.
  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and maintain necessary certifications for launch site operations.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for government entities, regulatory bodies, and key stakeholders to ensure mission success.
  • Oversee the development and maintenance of safety protocols and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel.
  • Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, increase launch cadence, and streamline operations.
  • Build and foster relationships with our local community, external partners, suppliers, construction manager and customers to support successful launch operations.
  • Certification authority for all launch operators to ensure satisfactory completion of training and operational competency of the team.
  • Serve as Launch Director for all orbital operations and systems testing, responsible for mission success and safety for all operations.
  • From time to time, represent Maritime Launch Services at industry conferences, meetings, and other events.

Essential Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, aerospace, or a related field
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience in aerospace operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
  • Proven track record of managing large-scale aerospace projects and leading cross-functional teams, demonstrating rigorous cost, schedule and performance adherence
  • Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and safety standards in the Canadian, US and European aerospace industries.
  • Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Thrive in a hybrid, flexible work environment.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

  • Advanced degree (Master of Science degree preferred) in engineering, business administration, or a related field.
  • Extensive experience in launch vehicle integration, pad operations, facility management, mission management, and ground systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, drive process improvements and team building.
  • Experience working with national and international government agencies and regulatory bodies.
  • Highly detail-oriented, proactive, and able to thrive and deliver in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Requirements:

  • Willingness to pursue or possess necessary security clearances as required.
  • Availability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to support critical launch milestones.
  • Willingness to travel to clients, vendors, and to and from the Spaceport site and Maritime Launch HQ
  • Ability to work in industrial, outdoor environments and pass relevant background checks.
  • A US candidate may require an approved Technology Assistance Agreement through the US State Department to work in this role. If required, Maritime Launch would support the application.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Competitive salary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience
  • Eligibility for long-term incentives such as company stock options and performance pay
  • Generous relocation support
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other benefits

At Maritime Launch, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, women, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and all who may contribute to the diversification of our team.

Join us and make history in Canada’s space industry!

Submit your resume and cover letter to hr@maritimelaunch.com