Sr. Principal Engineer – Optical Communications & Avionics – TeraWave

Overview

Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with Tera Wave. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide. The Emerging Systems business unit is seeking a Senior Principal Engineer to lead the development of avionics systems for the Tera Wave constellation.

In this role, you will provide technical leadership in the design, development, and qualification of critical optical and electrical systems that enable high-speed, reliable inter-satellite links and ground communications.

• Lead the architecture and design of systems for space-based optical communications
• Develop avionics systems and PCBA designs for optical intersatellite links
• Establish technical requirements and specifications for optical and electrical interfaces
• Lead electrical testing and qualification campaigns for flight hardware

• Ph.D. or Master s degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related technical field
• 15+ years of experience in optical communications, photonics, or related fields
• Demonstrated expertise in fiber amplifier design and optimization for space applications
• Experience with PCBA design through all phases including architecture, schematic capture, and layout
• Strong knowledge of electro-optomechanical assemblies and electrical design
• Experience with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles for space-qualified hardware
• Background in reliability testing and qualification for space environments

• Experience with optical intersatellite links or free-space optical communications
• Knowledge of FPGA design and hardware implementation
• Experience with space-qualified fiber amplifiers and optical components
• Background in developing optical communication link budgets
• Experience with Python or other programming languages for test automation
• Knowledge of thermal management techniques for optical systems in space
• Experience with interface control documents (ICDs) for spacecraft subsystems
• Patent portfolio in optical communications or related technologies

At Blue Origin, we are driven by our company motto, Gradatim Ferociter, meaning "Step by Step, Ferociously." We believe in methodical innovation to achieve our vision of enabling millions of people to live and work in space for the benefit of Earth. As a Senior Principal Engineer for Optical Communications & Avionics, you will play a crucial role in developing revolutionary optical communication technologies for the Tera Wave constellation.

You ll work with world-class teams on challenging problems, have access to state-of-the-art facilities, and contribute to missions that will shape the future of space exploration and utilization.

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

Blue Origin is committed to building an authentic workplace. If your past experience doesn t align perfectly with every desired qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for this or other roles.

Applicants for employment 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.

• Blue’s Standard Background Check is required for all positions
• Some profiles may require additional checks, such as for DBIDS or other regulatory requirements
• Some roles may require additional driver or credential-related checks as applicable

• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
• Paid parental leave, short and long-term disability
• 401(k) with company match up to 5%, Education Support Program
• Stock options for regular employees (at least 20 hours/week)
• Paid time off: up to four weeks per year, plus up to 14 holidays

Blue Origin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We hire and promote based on qualifications, performance, and abilities, and we foster a workplace that supports trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms of employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or other protected status. Blue Origin will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable laws.

For more information on Know Your Rights, please see here.

Applicants seeking information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans or requesting reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process should contact