Satellite EGSE Lead - TeraWave

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, integration, and sustaining engineering of Electronic Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) for satellite integration, test, and production operations
• Define EGSE requirements by working across multi-disciplinary teams including Systems Engineering, Electrical, RF, Payload, and Mission Operations to ensure interface fidelity and test coverage
• Own the EGSE hardware and software architecture, including power EGSE, avionics harnesses, command and data handling interfaces, and automated test infrastructure
• Lead the design and integration of RF test systems for phased array antenna characterization, calibration, and functional verification, including near-field and far-field antenna range setups
• Define and execute phased array beam steering, gain, EIRP, and pattern verification test campaigns, integrating signal generators, vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, channel emulators, and antenna measurement systems
• Drive development of automated test sequences for high-volume satellite production, including over-the-air (OTA) and acceptance test flows
• Select and integrate real-time test platforms and data acquisition systems for satellite-level EGSE (e.g., National Instruments, Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz)
• Define EGSE interface control documents (ICDs) and maintain hardware and software configuration control across all EGSE assets
• Develop and maintain EGSE test procedures and test automation frameworks with a focus on production scalability, repeatability, and data traceability
• Coordinate with flight software, systems engineering, and payload teams to validate end-to-end RF link performance and communication subsystem behavior
• Plan and execute EGSE qualification, acceptance, and calibration campaigns supporting program milestones
• Track open EGSE anomalies and drive closure with appropriate subsystems
• Manage a team of EGSE engineers and technicians supporting factory and field operations
• Develop and maintain the EGSE roadmap aligned with the satellite production schedule and constellation deployment timeline
• Communicate EGSE status, risks, and milestone readiness to program leadership
• Evaluate emerging RF test and EGSE technologies for applicability to the TeraWave production test program

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related technical field
• 8+ years of experience in EGSE design, development, and integration for aerospace or satellite systems
• Demonstrated experience designing and integrating RF test systems, including signal generators, spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, channel emulators, and power meters
• Hands-on experience with phased array antenna test and characterization including beam steering verification, gain measurement, EIRP, and radiation pattern testing
• Working knowledge of RF system fundamentals including link budgets, noise figure, return loss, gain flatness, and spurious emissions
• Proven ability to define EGSE requirements and interface control documents from system-level specifications
• Experience with hardware and software configuration management processes for EGSE systems
• 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

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field
• Experience with high-volume or production satellite EGSE operations and test flow optimization
• Familiarity with satellite communication frequency bands (Ka, Ku, V, optical) and associated RF test methodologies
• Familiarity with RF channel emulation and fading simulation for link performance validation
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and coordinate across disciplines in a fast-paced development environment
• Ability to work flexible hours during critical integration and test campaigns
• Knowledge of relevant RF standards and test methodologies (ITU, ETSI, MIL-STD-461, IEEE 149)
• Experience supporting satellite-level FMEA, hazard analysis, or safety reviews in an EGSE or I&T environment
• Previous lead or management experience within an EGSE or systems integration organization
• Experience with real-time test platforms and data acquisition systems (National Instruments PXI/PXIe, Keysight VXI, or equivalent)

Skills

• Strong problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or equivalent automated test software
• Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks effectively
• Experience with cleanroom operations and ESD control

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%
• 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
• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)

Pay

• Base Pay Range For CA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45
• CO applicants is $144,179.00 - $201,849.90
• WA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45
• Other Site Ranges May Differ

Schedule

• Flexible work hours during critical integration and test campaigns