Senior Phased-Array Antenna Design Engineer Verified today
About this role
Blue Origin is pioneering space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite network delivering symmetrical data speeds up to 6 Tbps. This multi-orbit constellation connects optically-linked satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO).
As Senior Phased-Array Antenna Design Engineer, you will design the physical hardware forming the backbone of our in-space communications network. You will lead antenna system design from the ground up as a foundational member of a new in-house team.
What you will do
- Lead design and development of antenna systems, including reflectors, feeds, radiating elements, and sub-reflectors for Q-, V-, and E-band applications
- Own electromagnetic (EM) simulations using HFSS, CST, and TICRA to optimize antenna performance and drive design decisions
- Resolve complex technical challenges related to reflector geometries, feeds, RF performance, and phased-array architectures
- Collaborate with RFIC/MMIC, T/R module, DSP, mechanical, and thermal engineers to define requirements and system architecture
- Lead prototype fabrication, assembly, and RF testing including near-field, far-field, and environmental testing
- Own full antenna hardware lifecycle from concept and design through fabrication, characterization, and environmental qualification (thermal vacuum, vibration, radiation testing)
- Develop and maintain technical documentation including design analyses, test reports, requirements, and design review materials
Minimum qualifications
- B.S. in Electrical Engineering and 7+ years experience in RF antenna design, OR M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field and 5+ years experience in RF antenna design
- Experience designing antenna elements and antenna-in-package solutions for microwave and mmWave phased-array applications
- Solid understanding of electromagnetic theory and application to antenna design, particularly phased arrays
- Proven experience leading antenna design and development from concept through validation
- Proficiency with at least one major 3D electromagnetic simulation tool (TICRA, HFSS, or CST)
- Understanding of trade-offs among analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming architectures
- Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and anechoic chamber testing
Preferred qualifications
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with focus on Electromagnetics or Antennas
- Proven track record taking complex antenna system from concept through production and deployment, ideally for space applications
- Experience designing high-frequency antennas in mmWave spectrum, including Q-, V-, and E-bands
- Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC technologies and T/R module design considerations
- Knowledge of array calibration techniques and algorithms
- Experience with aerospace, defense, or wireless communications systems
- Active top secret clearance or eligibility to obtain and maintain top secret clearance
Compensation and location
Base pay range for CA and WA applicants: $197,529.00 - $276,539.55. Other site ranges may differ.
Employment requirements
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
- Paid parental leave, short and long-term disability
- 401(k) with company match up to 5%
- Education Support Program
- Stock options for all regular employees (20+ hours/week)
- Paid time off up to 4 weeks per year and up to 14 company-paid holidays
- Eligibility for bonuses based on role type and job level