Manager of Engines Test Operations (AFRL, CA)

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 diverse team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!  

Join our dynamic team of collaborative, passionate, and innovative individuals dedicated to fostering a culture of safety. As part of our team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration, where your meticulous attention and unwavering dedication to safety will be crucial to ensuring safe and repeatable space flight. Together, we strive to reduce the cost of access to space and realize Blue Origin's vision of establishing a sustainable human presence beyond Earth's boundaries.

We are in search of a talented individual with a strong ability to lead teams and a passion for testing rocket engines.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Engines Test Operations Engineering Manager will report to the Director of Engines Test and Flight Engineering within the Blue Engines business unit. Our team at Blue Engines is entrusted with the responsibility for all rocket engines powering our suborbital, orbital, and planetary vehicles. In this role, you will oversee the management of people, processes, and tools essential to propel Blue Origin's vehicles toward the realms of space.

As a manager in a matrix organization, you will lead a team of highly skilled and dedicated test engineers. Your team will be responsible for the testing of rocket engines, and you will play a crucial role in setting the technical direction for the team. In addition to managing the day-to-day operations, you will also be responsible for developing and supporting team members to ensure they meet the current and future needs of the engine program.

Your role will also involve overseeing the entire employee life cycle, from hiring and performance management to training and providing opportunities for career development. You will take ownership of planning, scheduling, and ensuring the on-time execution of hardware tests. With a focus on driving efficiency gains and increasing testing throughput, you will maintain a high standard of quality and prioritize the safety of your team above all else.

Additionally, you will provide direct technical support to your assigned engine program as an individual contributor, balancing managerial responsibilities with hands-on technical input. Your technical support will encompass testing, data analysis, peer reviews, participation in Data Reviews and Test Readiness Reviews, anomaly investigations, root cause analysis, and driving corrective actions and hardware improvements. Accountability for defects in the testing process will also fall under your purview, and you will drive corrective actions to address any issues conclusively. Ultimately, your impact will be felt in the manufacturing, testing, and delivery of hardware for various rocket engines, making your role a critical one in the success of the organization. This role is split between approximately 60% manager and 40% individual contributor.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in testing fluid and mechanical system components
• Proven track record of leading and influencing teams in shaping company-level policies and strategic direction.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate cross-functional teams towards collaborative efforts and successful delivery within challenging timelines.
• Strong work ethic with exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to thrive in a cooperative, fast-paced, and dynamic environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the capacity to effectively engage with executive leadership and shop floor personnel.
• Deep passion for spaceflight and exploration
• Proven ability to cultivate trust, foster positive and inclusive relationships, and enhance organizational culture.
• Must hold U.S. citizenship, be a U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or have been lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred:

• Master's degree or higher
• 5+ years of comprehensive experience specifically in testing a diverse range of rocket engine hardware.
• Experience in project planning and successful project execution within cost and schedule targets
• Proven hands-on test engineering expertise within the Aerospace or a related industry.
• Track record of successfully managing a team of at least five individuals in a direct capacity.
• In-depth knowledge of