Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer - TeraWave

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 connectivity with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This network will service tens of thousands of enterprise, data center, and government users who require reliable connectivity for critical operations.

As a Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer, you will design the physical hardware that forms the backbone of our in-space communication network. You will be a foundational member of a new, in-house team tasked with creating the next generation of high-frequency phased array antennas for Blue Origin’s space vehicles. This is a unique opportunity to own the antenna system design from the ground up, making critical architectural decisions that will directly impact our ability to communicate in deep space.

This role is for a technical leader who can translate mission needs into robust, space-qualified RF hardware. You will be the team’s center of gravity for antenna theory, EM simulation, and array design. You will work side-by-side with our DSP Architect and system engineers to deliver the high-performance communication systems that will enable millions of people to live and work in space.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Own significant components of the end-to-end design of advanced phased array antennas, from radiating element to the full array, for microwave and millimeter-wave applications (X, Ku, Ka-bands).
• Define system-level RF architectures, including leading trades between analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming approaches to meet platform constraints (SWaP, thermal, etc.).
• Guide and perform critical electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, and TICRA to optimize array performance, scan volume, and impedance matching.
• Collaborate closely with RFIC/MMIC, T/R module, DSP, mechanical, and thermal engineers to define requirements and ensure a cohesive system design.
• Oversee the entire hardware lifecycle, guiding the fabrication, characterization, and environmental qualification (e.g., thermal-vac, vibration, radiation) of antenna systems.
• Mentor other engineers and drive technical excellence through rigorous design reviews and data analysis.

Minimum Qualifications:

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering with 10+ years of experience in RF antenna design or M.S. in Electrical Engineering or a related field with 5+ years of experience in RF antenna design.
• Deep expertise in electromagnetic theory and its application to antenna design, particularly for phased arrays.
• Proven experience leading the design of an antenna or phased array system.
• Proficiency with at least one major 3D electromagnetic simulation tool (e.g., HFSS, CST).
• Understanding of the trade-offs between different beamforming architectures (analog, digital, hybrid).
• Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and anechoic chamber testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Electromagnetics or Antennas.
• Track record of taking a complex antenna system from initial concept through to production and successful deployment, ideally for space applications.
• Experience designing and developing high-frequency phased arrays at mm-Wave (e.g., Ka, V, E-band).
• Experience with the design and development of associated hardware, such as feed networks, polarizers, or waveguides.
• Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC technologies and T/R module design considerations.
• Knowledge of array calibration techniques and algorithms.
• Patents or publications in the field of antenna or phased array design.
• Base Pay Range for: CA applicants is $230,773.00 - $323,081.85
VA applicants is $230,773.00 - $323,081.85
WA applicants is $230,773.00 - $323,081.85
• Other site ranges may differ
• Culture 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 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, 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