Principal Satellite Software and Autonomy Lead

Blue Origin • Littleton, CO

5d

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 part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will drive the development of cutting-edge autonomous systems for our next-generation satellite systems . In this critical leadership position, you will define the software architecture and autonomy capabilities that enable our satellites to operate with unprecedented reliability, flexibility, and intelligence in the dynamic space environment.

Requirements

• B .S. degree in Computer Science , Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field .
• 10+ years of experience in software development for complex systems, with at least 5 years focused on autonomous systems, robotics, or space applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in C++ and Python programming in Linux environments.
• Proven experience architecting and implementing state machine-based control systems and autonomous decision-making frameworks.
• Strong background in fault management systems for safety-critical applications.
• Experience with real-time operating systems and embedded software development.
• Proficiency with version control systems, particularly Git, and modern software development practices.
• Track record of technical leadership in complex software projects, including team management and mentoring.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with machine learning applications in autonomous systems, particularly for space or aerospace domains.
• Knowledge of satellite operations, orbital mechanics, and space environment constraints.
• Background in developing software for space-qualified hardware or other resource-constrained platforms.
• Familiarity with spacecraft communication protocols and standards.
• Experience with formal methods for verifying safety-critical software.
• Prior work on multi-satellite systems, constellation management, or distributed space systems.
• Experience with model-based systems engineering tools and methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical authority for satellite software architecture and autonomous systems development, establishing technical direction and standards for the team.
• Define and implement the technical roadmap for satellite autonomy capabilities, including state machines, decision-making algorithms, and fault management systems.
• Design robust, scalable software architectures for space applications that meet rigorous reliability and safety requirements while enabling advanced autonomous capabilities.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team of software engineers and autonomy specialists, providing technical mentorship and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Guide the development of sophisticated algorithms for satellite operations, including autonomous navigation, fault detection and recovery, and resource optimization.
• Ensure seamless integration of software systems with spacecraft hardware, ground systems, and other mission elements.
• Oversee the implementation of safety-critical software components that adhere to the highest standards of reliability and fault tolerance.
• Assess emerging technologies and methodologies in machine learning, autonomous systems, and software engineering for potential application to satellite programs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including systems engineering, hardware development, operations, and external partners to align software capabilities with mission requirements.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees