Senior Embedded Software Engineering Manager – Blue National Security (TS/SCI Required)

Blue Origin; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 197,004 - 275,805; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid Time Off up to four weeks

Job summary

Blue Origin in Seattle is seeking a skilled Software Engineering Lead to develop mission-critical embedded software for national security programs. The position demands extensive experience in embedded software development and strong leadership skills, as well as an active TS/SCI clearance.

Join a team dedicated to innovative spaceflight solutions while collaborating across functions to ensure quality integration of software and hardware systems.

This role balances technical work and management responsibilities, offering a competitive salary range.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in embedded software development, at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proficiency in technical design and implementation in embedded systems.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of embedded software engineers developing mission-critical software.
• Collaborate on technical design, maintaining coding standards and quality.
• Manage project schedules and technical risk mitigation strategies.

Skills

Embedded C/C++ programming

Team leadership

Technical design and implementation

Communication skills

Real-time embedded software development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

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.

Special Mentions

• Location: Seattle, WA
• Relocation: Relocation assistance provided
• Security Clearance: TS/SCI clearance required
• Role Balance: 50% technical hands‑on work and 50% people leadership

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of embedded software engineers developing mission‑critical software for Blue Origin's National Security programs
• Actively contribute to technical design and implementation of embedded software systems, dedicating approximately 50% of time to hands‑on development
• Establish technical direction and software development processes for embedded systems in alignment with Blue Origin's National Security business unit objectives
• Write, review, and debug code alongside team members to maintain technical proficiency and ensure quality standards
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure software integration with hardware systems meets performance requirements
• Manage project schedules, resource allocation, and technical risk mitigation strategies
• Implement and maintain software development lifecycle processes compliant with security requirements
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to software engineering team members, focusing 50% of time on team development and management
• Interface with government and industry partners on classified programs
• Ensure software quality, reliability, and security through rigorous testing and validation procedures

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
• 8+ years of experience in embedded software development with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Current hands‑on technical proficiency in embedded software development practices and tools
• 2+ years of experience managing teams developing real‑time embedded software for aerospace or defense applications
• Proficiency in embedded C/C++ programming
• Active TS/SCI security clearance
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to lead technical discussions
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace or defense embedded software development
• Experience with NASA and/or Space Force Standards
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for embedded systems
• Experience with FPGA integration and hardware/software co‑design
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical contributions with leadership responsibilities
• Experience with Agile/Scrum development methodologies in regulated environments

Compensation Range (WA applicants) $197,004.00 – $275,805.60

Other site ranges may differ.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Blue Origin requires compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations for employment related to national security.

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 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 physical

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long‑term disability, 401(k) with a company match 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 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 workforce. 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 teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. 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 applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact [e-mail]. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.