Senior Photonics Systems Engineer - TeraWave

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed. 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!

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.

About the Role

As a Senior Photonics System Engineer, you will own the end-to-end modem photonics architecture for a state-of-the-art space laser communication terminal. You will define and integrate the full optical chain—including seed and LO lasers, modulators, optical amplifiers, filters, polarization control, and receivers—to deliver high-reliability, high-throughput optical links for a growing range of customer missions. Your technical leadership will set the standard for capability, manufacturability, and on-orbit performance.

Relocation assistance may be available for this position. Occasional travel may be required for technical reviews and supplier visits.

Responsibilities

• Define requirements, own optical link budgets and conduct architecture trade studies for space laser communication modem photonics.
• Architect and select narrow-linewidth lasers, electro-optic modulators and bias control, optical amplifiers, optical filters/WDM, polarization management, isolators, and coherent/Direct-Detect receiver front-ends.
• Allocate optical, electrical, thermal, and radiation margins; define interfaces to DSP/modem electronics, drivers/TIAs, power, and thermal/mechanical teams.
• Lead make/buy decisions and guide supplier selection, qualification, and performance management for critical photonic components.
• Establish redundancy and reliability strategies appropriate for spaceflight.
• Lead breadboard and brassboard development to de-risk architecture choices and mature to flight design.
• Define and execute verification and validation plans, including optical performance (OSNR, linewidth, RIN, extinction ratio, EVM/BER), stability, and latency.
• Analyze test data to characterize impairments (e.g., phase noise, SBS/thermal effects) and drive corrective actions.
• Validate system performance through environmental test (TVAC, vibration, shock, and radiation considerations) and ensure compliance to requirements.
• Maintain rigorous documentation of requirements, designs, ICDs, procedures, and results; contribute to FMEAs and design reviews.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (DSP/software, RF/electronics, optics, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain) to achieve design-for-manufacture and design-for-test.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in engineering roles supporting complex systems such as lasers, optics, electronics, or aerospace hardware, with at least 3 years in lead/architect roles.
• Demonstrated experience with photonics systems involving fiber-based electro-optic modulators and optical receivers.
• In-depth knowledge of lasers and photonics (e.g., narrow-linewidth lasers, photodiodes, nonlinear optics, fiber components/assembly, and laser system fabrication).
• Experience developing functional specifications, verification plans, and functional test procedures for optical communication systems.
• Proficiency in system characterization, environmental testing, and data analysis for photonic subsystems.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information to broad audiences and collaborate across disciplines to drive decisions.
• Hands-on experience with test frameworks and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB and/or Python; familiarity with LabVIEW).
• Experience with optical system simulation tools (e.g., VPIphotonics, OptiSystem, or similar) is a plus.
• MS degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Optics/Optical Sciences, or a related field; OR equivalent work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in lasers/optics/electronics/aerospace hardware with 5+ years in lead architect roles.
• Expertise in high data rate optical communications, including advanced modulation, DSP interfaces, and coherent reception techniques.
• Direct experience deploying systems in spaceflight environments and qualifying photonic hardware for launch and on-orbit operation.
• Experience with Design for Manufacturing/Assembly (DFM/DFA), fiber handling/assembly, contamination control, and process improvement in production environments.
• PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics/Optical Sciences, or a related field.

Pay

Compensation range for WA applicants is $156,802.00 - $219,522.45. Other site ranges may differ.

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.
• 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.

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.