Flight Software Engineer III

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. This role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit.

About the role

As a Flight Software Engineer III, you will play a critical role in designing, developing, testing, and deploying embedded flight software for spacecraft systems supporting a broad mission portfolio — from commercial and civil space to national security. Working alongside a talented, mission-driven team of engineers, you will contribute directly to software that commands, controls, and safeguards some of the most capable spacecraft ever built. Your work will ensure that our vehicles and spacecraft operate safely, reliably, and with the performance our customers and missions demand.

We are looking for an engineer with solid embedded software experience and a passion for spaceflight — someone who is comfortable taking challenging problems from design through delivery and contributing to a strong team culture. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-consequence environment and want your code to fly in space, this is the role for you.

Relocation: Relocation assistance will be provided for qualified candidates.
Travel: Up to 10% travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, integrate, and test real-time embedded flight software in C/C++ for spacecraft avionics
• Lead translation of system and software requirements into robust, flight-quality code in partnership with systems, avionics, GN&C, and test engineers
• Drive work across all phases of the software development lifecycle — from requirements and architecture through implementation, code review, verification, and deployment
• Develop and execute software verification and validation plans, including unit, integration, and automated regression tests
• Debug and resolve software and hardware/software integration issues in Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) environments
• Lead design, code, and peer reviews
• Uphold and evolve coding standards
• Investigate software anomalies and lead root cause analysis
• Ensure software deliverables comply with applicable safety, quality, and mission assurance standards
• Support launch operations and mission readiness reviews
• Contribute to continuous improvement of software development processes, tools, and infrastructure
• Mentor and peer-coach junior engineers, helping grow the next generation of flight software talent

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
• 5+ years of professional experience in embedded software development
• Proficiency in C/C++ programming in resource-constrained embedded environments
• Working knowledge of real-time operating systems
• Working knowledge of software verification, testing, and debugging techniques for embedded systems
• Understanding of embedded communication protocols such as UART, SPI, I2C, or TCP/IP

Preferred Qualifications

• Master of Science in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline
• Experience developing flight software for spacecraft, satellites, or other safety-critical aerospace systems
• Experience with Python for test automation, scripting, or tooling

Why Blue Origin

At Blue Origin, we are building a road to space so that the next generation can build the future. Joining the In-Space Systems team means working on the infrastructure that will enable a thriving on-orbit economy and unlock new possibilities for science, exploration, and commerce. You will work shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the most talented engineers in the industry, see your code fly, and help define what’s possible in spaceflight.

Pay

Base Pay Range:

• For CO applicants: $164,652.00 - $230,512.80
• For WA applicants: $164,652.00 - $230,512.80
• Other site ranges may differ

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 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)
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays
• Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for additional benefits and bonuses based on individual contributions and company results

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin 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.

Background Check

• Standard Background Check for all positions
• Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if the role requires access to a military installation
• Additional requirements for drivers operating Commercial Motor Vehicles (e.g., drug and alcohol testing, medical certification, road test, CDL requirements if applicable)
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Merchant Mariner Credential, including pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical, for certain roles