Photonics Systems Test Engineer

Application close date:

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!

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.

We are seeking an Optical Amplifier Test Engineer to work on developing fiber and laser amplifiers used in space optical communication links.

You'll collaborate closely with photonics, electrical, firmware, and manufacturing teams tovalidateperformance, improve reliability, and drive issue resolution from lab to flight.

Special Mentions:

Relocationassistanceis available for qualified candidates. The role may require up to 20% travel for supplier visits, conferences, and field testing.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Plan and perform optical/electrooptical 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, andoperatelab equipment (OSA, power meters, beam profilers/M, photodetectors, oscilloscopes, attenuators, polarization measurement)

• Build andmaintaintest setups: fiber handling and prep (stripping, cleaving, splicing), connector inspection/cleaning, fiber management; enforce laser safety

• Analyze measurement data; driverootcauseand corrective actions; generate technical reports and recommendations

• Verify passive and activecomponentperformance (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 whilemaintainingquality

• Support environmental/reliability testing (e.g., thermal cycling,thermalvacuum, vibration, life testing) as applicable

• Collaborate with suppliers to define test requirements, review data, and qualify components

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field

• 3+ years ofhandsontesting 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/M, photodetectors) and basic electronics test gear (oscilloscope, supplies)

• Ability to write clear test procedures, analyze data, and produce concise engineering reports

• Strong troubleshooting skills and collaboration; comfortable working independently in afastpacedlab environment

• Knowledge of laser safety practices (e.g., ANSI Z136) and safe handling ofhighpoweroptical systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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;
  
  Zemaxforfreespaceoptics)

• 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) andcrossdisciplinaryintegration with electronics and firmware

Why Blue Origin:

At Blue Origin,you'llbe part of a historic mission to expand humanity's presence in space.

You'llwork 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 teamthat'smaking history!

Compensation Range…