Sr. Principal Engineer – Optical Communications & Avionics – TeraWave
About The Position
Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, 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 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 at Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, 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 128 satellites in medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide. Blue Origin's Emerging Systems is seeking an exceptional Senior Principal Engineer to lead the development of avionics systems for the TeraWave 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.
Requirements
- 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
Nice To Haves
- 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
Responsibilities
- 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
Benefits
- Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.
- 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%
- Education Support Program
- Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
- Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours
- Up to 14 company-paid holidays
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
