Blue Origin
Sr. Microwave Engineer for Space-based Communications
Blue Origin, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
Sr. Microwave Engineer for Space-based Communications
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 an 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, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment where innovation must align with real‑world constraints.
Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To
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., M.S. or Ph.D. 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 Range For
CA applicants: $152,235.00 – $213,127.95
CO applicants: $139,979.00 – $195,969.90
WA applicants: $152,235.00 – $213,127.95
Culture Statement
Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin 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.
Background Check
Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check.
Required for certain job profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if the role requires one to be on a military installation.
Required for certain job profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with GVWR ≥10,001 lbs. and/or transport placardable hazardous materials may be subject to additional FMCSA requirements.
Required for certain job profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre‑employment and random drug testing and DOT physical.
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long‑term disability, 401(k) with company match up to 5%, and an 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.
Discretionary bonus program.
Eligibility for benefits varies by role type; please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role.
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. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of ...
California Applicant Privacy Notice
If you are a California resident, please reference the CA Applicant Privacy Notice here.
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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 an 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, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment where innovation must align with real‑world constraints.
Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To
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., M.S. or Ph.D. 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 Range For
CA applicants: $152,235.00 – $213,127.95
CO applicants: $139,979.00 – $195,969.90
WA applicants: $152,235.00 – $213,127.95
Culture Statement
Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Export Control Regulations
Applicants for employment at Blue Origin 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.
Background Check
Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check.
Required for certain job profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if the role requires one to be on a military installation.
Required for certain job profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with GVWR ≥10,001 lbs. and/or transport placardable hazardous materials may be subject to additional FMCSA requirements.
Required for certain job profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre‑employment and random drug testing and DOT physical.
Benefits
Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long‑term disability, 401(k) with company match up to 5%, and an 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.
Discretionary bonus program.
Eligibility for benefits varies by role type; please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role.
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. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of ...
California Applicant Privacy Notice
If you are a California resident, please reference the CA Applicant Privacy Notice here.
#J-18808-Ljbffr