BLUE ORIGIN
Sr. Microwave Engineer for Space-based Communications
BLUE ORIGIN, Kent, Washington, us, 98089
Overview
Application close date: 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! The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. We are seeking a Senior Microwave Engineer to lead the design and development of next-generation, high-performance phased array RF front-end systems for mission-critical, high-reliability applications in space-based communications. This role will be a key technical contributor and thought leader, driving system architecture from concept through qualification. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in RF circuit theory, extensive experience in phased array front-end design, development and electromagnetic simulation, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment where innovation must align with real-world constraints.
Responsibilities
Lead the design, simulation, and validation of next generation RF microwave components for advanced phased array antenna applications in microwave and millimeter-wave bands (e.g., X, Ku, Ka). Architect scalable, phased array antenna RF front-end tailored to platform-specific constraints including size, weight, power, thermal, and environmental factors. Lead the development of RFIC/MMIC and T/R modules for beamforming architectures—including analog, digital, and hybrid approaches—collaborating closely with antenna and systems engineers to define the complete RF signal chain. Perform advanced RF circuit/system simulations, using tools like ADS, Cadence AWR, and MATLAB. Lead the integration and test of component level and system level phased array hardware. Lead RF front-end modules integration into phased array antenna and support environmental qualification efforts (e.g., thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation tolerance) for space-capable platforms. Mentor junior engineers and provide peer review of design artifacts, test plans, and results to ensure technical excellence. Interface with systems engineering, mechanical, firmware, and program leadership to align technical execution with product goals and timelines. Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends to propose architectural improvements and innovation pathways.
Minimum Qualifications
BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field. 7+ years of hands-on experience designing and validating phased array antenna systems. Background designing and testing analog Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs), including frequency conversion, automatic gain control, amplifier design and analog filter design. Experience designing high-frequency CCAs for space applications. Understanding of allocating and flowing down requirements from the system to the component level. Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC design or selection for T/R modules for RF front-end development. Demonstrated expertise with commercial RF simulation tools (ADS, Cadence AWR, HFSS, CST, MATLAB). Experience integrating RF circuit and phased arrays antenna into systems with environmental constraints such as thermal cycling, radiation, or vibration for space environment. Strong hands-on experience with microwave testing techniques, including using spectrum analyzers, real-time spectrum analyzers (RSAs), vector network analyzers (VNAs) and performance network analyzers (PNAs).
Preferred Qualifications
Solid understanding of beamforming theory, array calibration, and electromagnetic propagation in complex environments. Strong academic background that includes courses in Microwave Engineering, Microwave Systems, Electromagnetic Theory and Radar Systems. Background in space- or flight-qualified hardware and environmental testing protocols. Experience evaluating third party solutions for integration and/or trade vs in-house development. Publications or patents in the field of phased arrays or antenna systems.
Compensation
Compensation Range for California applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95; Colorado applicants is $139,979.00-$195,969.90; Washington applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95. Other site ranges may differ.
Culture and Equal Opportunity
Culture: Don’t meet all desired requirements? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Equal Employment Opportunity: Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated workforce. We hire on the basis of qualifications, performance, and abilities and provide equal opportunities for hire and advancement regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or other status protected by law.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation: Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or requesting a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Do not include personal medical information in your request.
Background, Security and Privacy
Export Control Regulations: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum. Background checks and other regulatory requirements may apply as described.
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Application close date: 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! The role is part of the In-Space Systems business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. We are seeking a Senior Microwave Engineer to lead the design and development of next-generation, high-performance phased array RF front-end systems for mission-critical, high-reliability applications in space-based communications. This role will be a key technical contributor and thought leader, driving system architecture from concept through qualification. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in RF circuit theory, extensive experience in phased array front-end design, development and electromagnetic simulation, as well as the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment where innovation must align with real-world constraints.
Responsibilities
Lead the design, simulation, and validation of next generation RF microwave components for advanced phased array antenna applications in microwave and millimeter-wave bands (e.g., X, Ku, Ka). Architect scalable, phased array antenna RF front-end tailored to platform-specific constraints including size, weight, power, thermal, and environmental factors. Lead the development of RFIC/MMIC and T/R modules for beamforming architectures—including analog, digital, and hybrid approaches—collaborating closely with antenna and systems engineers to define the complete RF signal chain. Perform advanced RF circuit/system simulations, using tools like ADS, Cadence AWR, and MATLAB. Lead the integration and test of component level and system level phased array hardware. Lead RF front-end modules integration into phased array antenna and support environmental qualification efforts (e.g., thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation tolerance) for space-capable platforms. Mentor junior engineers and provide peer review of design artifacts, test plans, and results to ensure technical excellence. Interface with systems engineering, mechanical, firmware, and program leadership to align technical execution with product goals and timelines. Stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends to propose architectural improvements and innovation pathways.
Minimum Qualifications
BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field. 7+ years of hands-on experience designing and validating phased array antenna systems. Background designing and testing analog Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs), including frequency conversion, automatic gain control, amplifier design and analog filter design. Experience designing high-frequency CCAs for space applications. Understanding of allocating and flowing down requirements from the system to the component level. Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC design or selection for T/R modules for RF front-end development. Demonstrated expertise with commercial RF simulation tools (ADS, Cadence AWR, HFSS, CST, MATLAB). Experience integrating RF circuit and phased arrays antenna into systems with environmental constraints such as thermal cycling, radiation, or vibration for space environment. Strong hands-on experience with microwave testing techniques, including using spectrum analyzers, real-time spectrum analyzers (RSAs), vector network analyzers (VNAs) and performance network analyzers (PNAs).
Preferred Qualifications
Solid understanding of beamforming theory, array calibration, and electromagnetic propagation in complex environments. Strong academic background that includes courses in Microwave Engineering, Microwave Systems, Electromagnetic Theory and Radar Systems. Background in space- or flight-qualified hardware and environmental testing protocols. Experience evaluating third party solutions for integration and/or trade vs in-house development. Publications or patents in the field of phased arrays or antenna systems.
Compensation
Compensation Range for California applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95; Colorado applicants is $139,979.00-$195,969.90; Washington applicants is $152,235.00-$213,127.95. Other site ranges may differ.
Culture and Equal Opportunity
Culture: Don’t meet all desired requirements? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Equal Employment Opportunity: Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated workforce. We hire on the basis of qualifications, performance, and abilities and provide equal opportunities for hire and advancement regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or other status protected by law.
Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation: Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or requesting a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at EEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Do not include personal medical information in your request.
Background, Security and Privacy
Export Control Regulations: Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum. Background checks and other regulatory requirements may apply as described.
#J-18808-Ljbffr