Principal Optical Transport Network 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 spaceflightThis role is part of TeraWave, a 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.The Emerging Systems business unit at 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 5,408 optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.We are seeking a Senior Optical Transport Network Engineer. You will shape the future of laser communication systems from concept through on-orbit activities. This role encompasses the comprehensive development of the product line, frominitialprototyping to production, ensuring technical rigor and operational success. Your leadership will set the standard for new capabilities and a growing range of Blue Origin capabilities.Special Mentions:Relocationassistancemay be available for thispositionTravel expectations: Up to 15% travel may berequiredfor supplier visits, technical reviews, and fieldtestingResponsibilities include but are not limited to:Network Architecture & DevelopmentDevelop proof of concept optical networks for data transfer solutionsBe a leader in the development of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems for in-spaceapplicationsDefine transport architecture, requirements, and performancebudgetsLead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reductiontestingWork with network architects and designers to help define system data transferconceptsTechnical Implementation & TestingSupport the design, test, and characterization of prototypesystemsSupport the test and characterization of COTS opticaltransceiversWork with members of an interdisciplinary team to deploy DWDM systems in terrestrial and spaceflightenvironmentsWork with mechanical engineering and thermal engineering staff to qualify hardware forspaceflightPlay a meaningful role in Design for ManufacturabilityTechnical Leadership & DocumentationInterface with Supply Chain toidentifysuppliers for specialty components and support costoptimizationConduct analysis and tradestudiesAuthor ICDs,ConOps, and commissioning plansParticipate in system design reviews, and lead subsystem and subassembly designreviewsCommunicate technical updates to cross-functionalteamsMinimum Qualifications:A minimum of 10 years of experience in engineering roles supporting complex systems (e.g., lasers, optics, electronics, or aerospace hardware)A minimum of 7 years of experience focused on Optical Transport Network (OTN) engineering and/or networkengineeringExperience deploying Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) equipment for fiber optic communicationssystemsExperience in the configuration of 100G to 400G+ QSFP, CFP2-DCO transceivers, OSFP orsimilarExperience in the configuration ofmuxponderequipmentKnowledge ofOpenZR+,OpenROADM, and IEEE 802.3 standards

Created: 2026-02-10