Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer - In-Space Systems

Blue Origin•Seattle, WA

39d•$168,414 - $248,999

About The Position

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 role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. As a Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer, you will architect the physical hardware that forms the backbone of our in-space communication network. You will be a foundational member of a new, in-house team tasked with creating the next generation of high-frequency phased array antennas for Blue Origin's space vehicles. This is a unique opportunity to own the antenna system design from the ground up, making critical architectural decisions that will directly impact our ability to communicate in deep space. This role is for a technical leader who can translate mission needs into robust, space-qualified RF hardware. You will be the team's center of gravity for antenna theory, EM simulation, and array design. You will work side-by-side with our DSP Architect and system engineers to deliver the high-performance communication systems that will enable millions of people to live and work in space.

Requirements

M.S. in Electrical Engineering or a related field with 7+ years of experience, or a B.S. with 9+ years of experience, in RF antenna design.
Deep expertise in electromagnetic theory and its application to antenna design, particularly for phased arrays.
Proven experience leading the design of an antenna or phased array system.
Proficiency with at least one major 3D electromagnetic simulation tool (e.g., HFSS, CST).
Understanding of the trade-offs between different beamforming architectures (analog, digital, hybrid).
Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and anechoic chamber testing.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Electromagnetics or Antennas.
Track record of taking a complex antenna system from initial concept through to production and successful deployment, ideally for space applications.
Experience designing and developing high-frequency phased arrays at mm-Wave (e.g., Ka, V, E-band).
Experience with the design and development of associated hardware, such as feed networks, polarizers, or waveguides.
Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC technologies and T/R module design considerations.
Knowledge of array calibration techniques and algorithms.
Patents or publications in the field of antenna or phased array design.

Responsibilities

Architect and own the end-to-end design of advanced phased array antennas, from radiating element to the full array, for microwave and millimeter-wave applications (X, Ku, Ka-bands).
Define system-level RF architectures, including leading trades between analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming approaches to meet platform constraints (SWaP, thermal, etc.).
Guide and perform critical electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, and TICRA to optimize array performance, scan volume, and impedance matching.
Collaborate closely with RFIC/MMIC, T/R module, DSP, mechanical, and thermal engineers to define requirements and ensure a cohesive system design.
Oversee the entire hardware lifecycle, guiding the fabrication, characterization, and environmental qualification (e.g., thermal-vac, vibration, radiation) of antenna systems.
Mentor other engineers and drive technical excellence through rigorous design reviews and data analysis.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

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