RF Systems Engineer III Jobs

RF Systems Engineer IIIApplication 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. The role is part of the Blue National Security business unit, which is focused on addressing two of the most compelling challenges in spaceflight today: space infrastructure and increasing mobility on-orbit. As an RF Systems Engineer III within the Advanced Capabilities organization, you will support a broad portfolio of civil, commercial, and National Security Space programs across the business unit. Working closely with the Chief Communications Architect, you will help shape the future of spacecraft communications - from early-stage architecture development through system-level requirements definition and flow-down to spacecraft development teams. This is a high-impact, highly visible role at the intersection of mission engineering and cutting-edge RF communications technology. We are looking for someone to apply their technical expertise, collaborative spirit, and passion for space to positively impact our mission of Millions of People Living and Working in Space for the Benefit of Earth. Passion for our mission and vision is required!Special Mentions:This position is based out of Seattle, WA OR any of Blue Origin's major locationsRelocation assistance is available for candidates who qualifyTravel expectation: less than 25%Responsibilities include but are not limited to:Collaborate with the Chief Communications Architect to develop end-to-end RF communications system architectures for spacecraft across civil, commercial, and National Security Space programsDevelop and maintain initial RF link budgets for space-to-ground and crosslink communications across a range of mission profiles and orbital regimesDefine and develop system-level RF specifications and flow them down to spacecraft development teams for further design, integration, and deliveryDesign and support testing of spacecraft Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C) systems and mission data systemsPerform RF systems analysis and trade studies, including modulation schemes, frequency band selection, antenna coverage, and link margin optimizationSupport requirements definition, traceability, and verification across the RF communications subsystem lifecycleConduct performance analysis for missions spanning Earth-centered orbits (LEO, MEO, GEO) as well as deep space environments including cislunar and MarsEngage with internal spacecraft development teams and external partners to ensure RF system designs meet mission requirementsContribute to technical reviews and provide subject matter expertise on RF communications topicsSupport proposal development and new business capture activities across the business unitStay current with emerging technologies, standards, and best practices in spacecraft RF communicationsMinimum Qualifications:Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or a closely related technical field5+ years of hands-on experience in RF systems engineering, including design, analysis, integration, and/or test of spacecraft communications systemsDemonstrated experience developing RF link budgets and performing end-to-end communications system analysisWorking knowledge of spacecraft TT&C subsystem architectures, including transmitters, receivers, transponders, and associated ground station equipmentExperience developing and flowing down system-level RF specifications to hardware development teamsFamiliarity with RF communications standards and protocols relevant to space applications (e.g., CCSDS)Strong analytical skills with the ability to perform system-level trade studies and communicate results clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholdersExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience contributing to technical documentation and design reviewsPreferred Qualifications:Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field7+ years of experience in spacecraft RF communications systems engineeringActive Top Secret (TS) security clearance or the ability to obtain oneExperience with deep space communications systems, including cislunar and/or Mars mission architecturesFamiliarity with NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) or commercial ground network interfaces and operational conceptsExperience with software-defined radio (SDR) platforms and digital signal processing techniquesProficiency in RF analysis and simulation tools such as STK, MATLAB, or PythonBackground in antenna systems design, including phased arrays, high-gain antennas, and omnidirectional coverage analysisExperience supporting National Security Space programs and familiarity with associated requirements and constraintsKnowledge of EMI/EMC design principles and testing methodologies for spaceflight hardwareExperience with environmental qualification of RF hardware (thermal vacuum, vibration, EMI/EMC)Experience contributing to government or commercial proposal efforts, including technical writing, basis of estimate development, and RF architecture inputs for new business captureDemonstrated ability to work across multi-disciplinary teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environmentCompensation Range for: CA applicants is $130,706.00 - $182,987.70 CO applicants is $119,814.00 - $167,738.55 WA applicants is $130,706.00 - $182,987.70 Other site ranges may differCulture 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 CheckRequired for all positions: Blue's Standard Background CheckRequired for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installationRequired 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 public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physicalBenefitsBenefits include: 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%, and an 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 benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.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 work force. 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