Principal Software Engineer – TeraWave RF and Optical Systems

Blue Origin; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Origin is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead software development for constrained environments and real-time systems within the Emerging Systems unit.

You will guide architectural decisions, optimize high‑speed data handling and encryption, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver robust, secure space‑grade software. Onsite in Greater Seattle, the Bay Area, or San Diego.

Relocation assistance available; travel may be required up to 10% of the time.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience guiding software teams in complex environments.
• Strong background in real-time operating systems and performance optimization.
• Expertise in encryption and secure data handling for high-speed networks.

Responsibilities

• Lead software architecture and development for constrained environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, space-grade software.
• Mentor engineers and drive technical excellence across projects.

Skills

Leadership

Real-time OS

Cryptography

High-speed data

Job description

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. This role is part of the Emerging Systems business unit, which is focused on developing cutting-edge space technologies including TeraWave, Blue Origin\'s revolutionary space-based networking system. TeraWave is designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps, providing connectivity to locations unreachable by traditional methods and adding a space-based layer to existing network infrastructure. As a Principal Software Engineer, you will play a vital leadership role within a team of specialists, technicians, and engineers, significantly contributing to the control and data plane architecture of the constellation. Your role will involve utilizing your expertise in software development for constrained environments, real-time operating systems, high-speed handling of data, and encryption to develop and maintain complex software solutions. You will guide software development and optimization efforts, collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure optimal quality and performance of our systems. Your ability to innovate, provide architectural direction, and deliver efficient solutions is crucial to managing the entire development process. Successful senior engineers not only meet complex requirements but also propose and implement innovative, cutting-edge solutions. Special Mentions ul This role will be onsite in one of these locations – Greater Seattle Area, WA; Bay Area, CA; San Diego, CA. It is approved for temporary remote work exception while our local site is developed Relocation assistance available Travel may be required up to 10% of the time br