Systems Architect - TeraWave

Overview

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Tera Wave, a satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This network will service tens of thousands of enterprise, data center, and government users who require reliable connectivity for critical operations.

We are seeking a Systems Architect to provide technical leadership for our revolutionary Tera Wave satellite communications network. This role will be instrumental in developing the architecture for our constellation designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps globally. The ideal candidate brings expertise in systems engineering, optical communications, and satellite systems, thriving in a fast-paced environment where innovation meets mission-critical execution.

• Develop and maintain the technical architecture for Tera Wave's multi-orbit constellation of 5,408 optically interconnected satellites
• Define system-level requirements and interfaces between LEO and MEO satellite layers
• Create architectural frameworks that integrate RF and optical communications technologies
• Lead technical trade studies to optimize constellation performance, reliability, and cost
• Develop verification and validation strategies for complex satellite communication systems
• Collaborate with payload, software, and hardware teams to ensure architectural alignment
• Identify and mitigate technical risks across the Tera Wave program
• Establish technical standards and best practices for system development
• Support technical reviews and ensure compliance with program requirements
• Develop models and simulations to validate system performance and capabilities
• Interface with customers and stakeholders to translate requirements into architectural solutions
• Mentor engineers on systems architecture principles and methodologies

• B.S. in an engineering-related field, with 10+ years of design, development or analysis experience
• Demonstrated experience in satellite systems engineering or communications architecture
• Experience in the development of satellite communications, optical systems, or laser communications
• Experience designing and analyzing complex systems with multiple interdependent subsystems
• Strong understanding of RF and optical communications principles
• Proficiency with systems modeling tools and methodologies
• Excellent technical written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with development in mission and safety-critical environments

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• Experience with multi-orbit satellite constellation design and optimization
• Knowledge of free-space optical principles and space-based communication systems
• Experience with Q/V-band RF communications and optical inter-satellite links
• Background in enterprise-grade network architecture for high-throughput applications
• Experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies
• Understanding of regulatory requirements for satellite communications systems
• Experience with optical measurement, testing, and performance characterization

Compensation Range for: CA applicants is $ - $; WA applicants is $ - $. Other site ranges may differ.

Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway.

You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.