Photonics Systems Test Engineer

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.

The Emerging Systems business unit at Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with Tera Wave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of 5,408 optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.

• Plan and perform optical/electro-optical tests to characterize amplifier performance (e.g., gain, noise figure, ASE, RIN, polarization effects, SBS/SRS thresholds, thermal behavior)
• Develop test plans, procedures, and acceptance criteria; maintain clear documentation and traceability
• Set up, calibrate, and operate lab equipment (OSA, power meters, beam profilers, photodetectors, oscilloscopes, attenuators, polarization measurement)
• Build and maintain test setups: fiber handling and prep (stripping, cleaving, splicing), connector inspection/cleaning, fiber management; enforce laser safety
• Analyze measurement data; drive root cause and corrective actions; generate technical reports and recommendations
• Verify passive and active component performance (e.g., WDMs, isolators, pumps, gain fiber, combiners, modulators, drivers, sensors) against specifications
• Improve test efficiency via fixtures, method refinement, and automation; reduce cycle time while maintaining quality
• Support environmental/reliability testing (e.g., thermal cycling, thermal vacuum, vibration, life testing) as applicable
• Collaborate with suppliers to define test requirements, review data, and qualify components

• BS/MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of hands-on testing and characterization of fiber lasers or optical amplifiers
• Proficient in fiber optic handling and preparation (stripping, cleaving, fusion splicing; connector inspection/cleaning)
• Experience with laser beam diagnostics and amplifier performance analysis (gain, noise figure, ASE/RIN, SBS/SRS)
• Skilled with optical lab instrumentation (optical spectrum analyzer, power meters, beam profiler, photodetectors) and basic electronics test gear (oscilloscopes, supplies)
• Ability to write clear test procedures, analyze data, and produce concise engineering reports
• Strong troubleshooting skills and collaboration; comfortable working independently in a fast-paced lab environment
• Knowledge of laser safety practices (e.g., ANSI Z136) and safe handling of high power optical systems

• Understanding of nonlinear fiber effects and mitigation (SBS suppression, Raman management, dispersion control)
• Familiarity with optical system modeling/tools (e.g., Opti System, Lumerical, RP Fiber Power; Zemax for freespace optics)
• Experience with test automation and data analysis (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Excel)
• Experience generating specifications for optical components and assemblies; supplier qualification and incoming inspection
• Exposure to testing space/aerospace optical hardware (e.g., TVAC, vibration) and cross-disciplinary integration with electronics and firmware

At Blue Origin, you ll be part of a historic mission to expand humanity s presence in space. You ll work with world-class experts in a collaborative environment that values innovation, safety, and excellence. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to directly contribute to the development of groundbreaking space technologies. Join us as we pursue our vision of millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth.

Are you ready to help us build the road to space? Apply today and become part of the team that s making history!

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

Culture Statement:
Don t meet all desired requirements? We encourage you to apply anyway. Equal Employment Opportunity, Background Check, Export Control Regulations, and California Applicant Privacy Notice information are included as applicable in the original posting.

Export Control Regulations:
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S.…