Senior Director - Silicon Systems & Software

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! Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space‑based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi‑orbit constellation will consist of optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise‑grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide. Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Director of Silicon Systems & Software to lead the end‑to‑end architecture and development of silicon systems and software within the Silicon Systems Division, supporting our revolutionary TeraWave satellite communications network. This role will be instrumental in establishing the system architecture and software development for the custom ASICs we design for our constellation to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps globally. The leader will oversee two core pillars: Silicon Systems Architecture (RF systems, DSP, and communications systems engineering) and Embedded & Application Software (embedded software and application software for SoCs). The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in silicon system architecture, DSP and RF systems engineering, and embedded/application software leadership, thriving in a fast‑paced environment where bold innovation meets mission‑critical execution. Responsibilities Define and implement silicon system architecture and software engineering standards and methodologies to ensure delivery of high‑quality, integrated solutions across the custom ASICs. Serve as the leader ensuring silicon system architectures and associated software effectively align with business and mission requirements across the TeraWave program. Build and lead high‑performing teams across two pillars: Silicon Systems Architecture and Embedded & Application Software. Establish system requirements, interface control documentation, verification and validation strategies, and integration test practices for silicon systems and associated software. Drive the silicon system architecture for custom ASIC and SoC solutions including digital beamformer, modem SoC, and RF front‑end, defining algorithms, signal chains, and performance budgets. Lead DSP algorithm development, waveform design, and communications system architecture for modem and beamforming applications. Oversee embedded software development for digital beamformer, modem SoC, and L1 software, ensuring real‑time performance, reliability, and scalability. Oversee application software development layered on top of digital beamformer and modem SoC platforms, enabling configuration, control, telemetry, and higher‑layer functionality. Collaborate with silicon design, hardware, systems, and operations teams to define cross‑domain requirements, allocations, and end‑to‑end interface agreements. Lead silicon system‑level trade studies, architecture reviews, and technical risk assessments spanning RF, DSP, communications systems, and software. Provide technical leadership for architecture decisions spanning silicon systems, DSP/RF, embedded firmware, and application software. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field. 15+ years of progressive experience in silicon system architecture, RF/DSP systems, communications systems, or embedded/application software. 5+ years of experience successfully leading large, multidisciplinary engineering teams spanning hardware‑adjacent systems and software. Demonstrated experience architecting silicon systems (ASIC or SoC) from concept through production, with strong grounding in RF, DSP, or modem/beamformer architectures. Proven track record delivering embedded software (firmware, L1, real‑time) and application software for complex silicon platforms. Strong background in communications systems design including link analysis, waveform engineering, and RF/DSP systems. Deep understanding of systems engineering fundamentals including requirements management, interface definition, and verification methodology. Outstanding technical leadership, project management, and organizational skills. Experience managing external suppliers, IP vendors, and technology partners. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field. Experience with Low Earth Orbit (LEO) or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite constellation development. Background in modem SoC or digital beamformer silicon architecture. Experience architecting L1/PHY software and real‑time embedded systems for communications silicon. Experience with application software frameworks for silicon platform configuration, control, and telemetry. Knowledge of satellite communications standards and waveforms. Background in phased array antenna systems, digital beamforming, or advanced modem architectures. Experience with cybersecurity principles for embedded and communications systems. Compensation Compensation Range for CA applicants is $272,109.00 - $380,951.55. WA applicants is $272,109.00 - $380,951.55. Other site ranges may differ. Benefits 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 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. Equal Employment Opportunity Blue Origin is a proud Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated workforce. We provide all qualified applicants and employees with equal opportunities for hiring, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of protected characteristics. For more information on “Know Your Rights,” please see here. Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's affirmative action plans, or who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application and interview process, please contact us at View email address on click.appcast.io. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request. #J-18808-Ljbffr BLUE ORIGIN