Drafter - CAD III - Solar Array Design

Application close date:

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!

As part of a hardworking team of specialists, technicians, and engineers, you will contribute to Blue Origin's Solar Center of Excellence as we develop solar array production capability for spacecraft applications. This effort focuses on establishing scalable manufacturing processes that adapt proven solar technology for the demanding requirements of spaceflight. You will support the design and development of both solar panels and deployment mechanisms, working to optimize production methods while maintaining the reliability standards essential for space systems.

Your work will help establish a flexible solar array manufacturing platform that can support multiple current and future Blue Origin programs.

Special Mentions:

• Relocation provided
• Travel expected up to 25% of the time
• Interviews will include a technical assessment

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Create CAD models, drawings, and model-based definitions for Solar Array components and assemblies
• Prepare design layouts and resolve design discrepancies for mechanisms, structures, and electrical wiring
• Establish and maintain CAD product structures
• Create detailed manufacturing and assembly drawings with GD&T for production and procurement.
• Perform model and drawing check activities during release reviews
• Perform tolerance analysis to ensure proper fit and function
• Support development builds from concept to completion
• Optimize designs for automated manufacturing, cost reduction, and scalable production
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Operations, and Automation engineers on DFM decisions

Minimum Qualifications:

• 5+ years professional experience as a CAD designer/drafter
• Expert-level proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g. Creo) and PLM/PDM (e.g. Windchill), including configuration management, eBOM creation/maintenance, change control, and release workflows.
• Advance proficiency with GD&T per ASME Y14.5, including tolerance stack-up and datum scheme development across multi-part assemblies
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals
• Experience with implementing DFM/DFA principles in designs
• Understanding of top-down and bottom-up design practices
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration and leadership: incorporating inputs from thermal, mechanical, manufacturing, electrical, and testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with aerospace mechanisms, deployment systems, or spacecraft hardware
• Familiarity with cost-driven design and production-scale manufacturing
• Experience with machining, sheet metal, tube structures, and automated fabrication processes
• Track record of taking designs from concept through production
• Experience with rapid prototyping to inform design early
• Parametric parameter development for product design
• Creo experience and Windchill experience
• Expertise in tolerance analysis and CTE incorporation
• Understanding of materials and coating selection and properties

Compensation Range for:

Other site ranges may differ

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 (i.e. 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 at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

• Required for Certain Job Profiles:
  Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a…