Director Launch Operations Canada (Aerospace)

Location: Canso, Nova Scotia, Canada. The role includes an extended onboarding and training period at the headquarters in Germany or the launch site in Norway before transitioning to local operations in Canso.

Company

hirify.global develops sustainable launch solutions for small and medium-sized satellites and constellations into Low Earth Orbit.

What you will do

• Act as the primary local interface for launch site operations during the design, build-up, commissioning, and operational phases.
• Establish operational processes, resource-management workflows, and interfaces with global launch operations teams and the launch site operator.
• Support infrastructure design, permitting, certification, and compliance with applicable legal and safety frameworks.
• Build and lead the local technical and operational organization, including hiring, coaching, succession planning, and capability development.
• Ensure control-room operator training, site readiness, equipment availability, and resource readiness for each launch campaign.
• Direct launch operations in accordance with quality, safety, regulatory, and documentation requirements.

Requirements

• Engineering bachelor's or master's degree, or equivalent qualification, in aerospace, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in launch operations, ground segment operations, process plant operations, or a similar field.
• Hands-on experience developing or testing complex systems involving conditions such as cryogenic temperatures, high pressures, high temperatures, or hazardous materials.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary technical or operational teams, including hiring, performance management, coaching, and capability development.
• Experience interacting with regulatory entities and notified bodies, with the ability to make sound decisions in high-pressure and ambiguous situations.
• Fluency in English is required.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on advanced launch systems and sustainable access to space.
• Join a fast-growing, privately funded aerospace company focused on small and medium-sized satellite launches.
• Initial flexible working arrangements may be required during launch site development.
• Receive extended onboarding and training in Germany or Norway before local operations are established in Canada.
• Work in a culture emphasizing safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous development.