Sr. Satellite Lead Systems Engineer

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 Satellite Lead Systems Engineer to architect and guide the development of next-generation satellite platforms for space missions. This role will serve as a key technical leader, driving system-level requirements design, integration, and validation across multidisciplinary teams. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in satellite systems engineering, requirement decomposition, and interface definition, and thrives in a fast-paced environment where innovation meets mission‑critical execution.

• Lead end-to-end satellite system architecture, including payload, bus, propulsion, power, thermal, and communications subsystems.
• Define and decompose system-level requirements into actionable specifications across engineering domains.
• Develop and maintain interface control documents (ICDs) to ensure subsystem compatibility and integration fidelity.
• Conduct system analysis and trade studies to optimize performance, reliability, and cost across mission profiles.
• Drive verification and validation planning, including environmental testing, functional checks, and mission simulations.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and RF teams to align technical execution with program milestones.
• Lead design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) and ensure technical artifacts meet quality and compliance standards.
• Support satellite integration, test, and launch operations, including anomaly resolution and post-launch analysis.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a culture of technical excellence and cross-functionally collaboration.

• B.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in satellite systems engineering.
• Proven expertise in requirement analysis, interface definition, and system-level verification and validation.
• Demonstrated experience with satellite integration and environmental qualification (thermal, vibration, EMI/EMC).
• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems and their interactions across the mission lifecycle.
• Familiarity with MBSE tools, system modeling languages (SysML), and simulation environments.

• Experience leading satellite programs from concept through launch and operations.
• Hands‑on experience with satellite ground systems and mission operations.
• Background in RF communications, propulsion systems, or thermal control.
• Experience evaluating third‑party solutions for integration or trade vs. in‑house development.
• Publications or patents in the field of satellite systems engineering or spaceflight technologies.
• Experience managing and mentoring engineering teams, including coaching, technical guidance, and cross‑functional coordination.

CO applicants: $–$; WA applicants: $–$.

Other site ranges may differ

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.

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.