Senior Laser Communication Terminal Payload Lead - In-Space Systems Job at Blue

Senior Laser Communication Terminal Payload Lead - In-Space Systems

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!

Overview

The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which focuses on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. We are seeking a Senior Laser Communication Terminal Payload Lead. As the single-threaded leader, you will shape the future of laser communication systems from concept through on-orbit activities. This role encompasses the comprehensive development of the product line, from initial prototyping to production, ensuring technical rigor and operational success. Your leadership will set the standard for new capabilities and a growing range of customer missions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of a laser communication terminal payload.
• Drive design for manufacturability, cost, and related Design for Excellence considerations to enhance product development efficiency.
• Engage the specialty engineering team, interpret and adjudicate technical budgets, test results, and resolve technical issues.
• Coordinate system integration and testing efforts to ensure product reliability and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives and address technical challenges.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in engineering roles supporting complex systems such as optics, electronics, or aerospace hardware with at least 3 years in lead engineer roles.
• Experience with laser communication payloads is required, involving at least one major program lifecycle phase, such as design, build, or testing.
• Cradle-to-grave expertise in an Electro-Optical payload system, not limited to laser communication systems.
• Background in manufacturing and production processes.
• Demonstrated capability in leading DFx (Design for Excellence) initiatives, including design for manufacturing and cost.
• Experience overseeing technical teams, with skills in interpreting and managing technical budgets, understanding multi-disciplinary analysis or test results, and resolving technical issues.
• Effective communication skills for collaboration with government and commercial partners.
• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• 15 years of experience in engineering roles supporting complex systems (e.g., optics, electronics, or aerospace hardware), with at least 5 years in lead engineer roles.
• Experience in on-orbit payload operations.
• Solid understanding of free-space laser communications and optical beam-pointing control.
• Current Top Secret or TS/SCI Security clearance.
• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.

Compensation

Compensation ranges are location-dependent: CA applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95; CO applicants is $139,979.00-$195,969.90; WA applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95. Other site ranges may differ.

Culture and Eligibility

Culture Statement: Don’t meet all desired requirements? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Blue’s Standard Background Check required for all positions.
• Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check may be required if the role requires access to a military installation.
• Certain Job Profiles may require additional checks related to commercial driver qualifications or Merchant Mariner Credential eligibility.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match up to 5%, and Education Support Program.
• Paid Time Off: up to four weeks per year plus up to 14 company-paid holidays.
• Discretionary bonus: Eligible based on individual contributions and company results.
• Benefits eligibility varies by role; please check with your recruiter for details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We hire and promote based on qualifications, performance, and abilities, fostering trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide equal opportunities for hire and advancement regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law.

Privacy and Accommodations

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation: For information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com.

California Applicant Privacy Notice: California residents should reference the CA Applicant Privacy Notice.