Payload Software Engineer - TeraWave
Listed on 2026-02-24
-
Engineering
Software Engineer, Embedded Software Engineer, Systems Engineer
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 Payload Software Engineer to develop network automation software for our revolutionary Tera Wave satellite communications network. This role will be instrumental in creating the software systems that enable our constellation to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps globally. The ideal candidate brings expertise in embedded systems, network protocols, and distributed systems, thriving in a fast-paced environment where innovation meets mission-critical execution.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Design and develop flight software for satellite payload systems, focusing on network automation and communication protocols
- Create robust software solutions for Q/V-band RF and optical communication payloads across LEO and MEO satellites
- Implement algorithms for autonomous network routing, load balancing, and fault recovery across the constellation
- Develop software interfaces between payload subsystems and the satellite bus
- Design and implement software for real-time data processing and transmission at speeds up to 6 Tbps
- Create simulation environments to validate payload software functionality prior to deployment
- Collaborate with hardware engineers to optimize software-hardware integration
- Develop and maintain software documentation, including requirements, design specifications, and test procedures
- Implement software security measures to protect communication integrity across the network
- Participate in code reviews, software integration testing, and anomaly resolution
- Support on-orbit software updates and maintenance operations
Minimum Qualifications:
- B.S. degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in embedded software development
- Proficiency in C/C++, Python, or other languages relevant to embedded and network systems
- Experience with real-time operating systems and embedded software development
- Understanding of networking protocols and distributed systems
- Knowledge of software development lifecycle and configuration management
- Experience with software testing methodologies and tools
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with satellite communications systems or payload software
- Knowledge of software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV)
- Familiarity with optical communications and related protocols
- Experience with high-throughput data processing systems
- Background in developing fault-tolerant, radiation-hardened software
- Understanding of cybersecurity principles for space systems
- Experience with FPGA programming or hardware acceleration techniques
- Knowledge of machine learning applications for network optimization
Compensation Range for:
CA applicants is $ - $WA applicants is $ - $Other site ranges may differ
Culture Statement
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.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.
Background Check
Required for all positions:
Blue's Standard Background CheckRequired for Certain Job Profiles:
Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installationRequired for Certain Job Profiles:
Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including:
Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only),…
(If this job is in fact in your jurisdiction, then you may be using a Proxy or VPN to access this site, and to progress further, you should change your connectivity to another mobile device or PC).