Senior Embedded Software Engineering Manager - Propulsion, RWA, and GNC

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: Kent, WA; Denver, CO; Phoenix, AZ; Huntsville, AL
• Relocation: Relocation assistance provided
• Travel: Up to 10% travel may be required
• Role Balance: 50% technical hands-on work and 50% people leadership

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead and manage the embedded software engineering team responsible for Propulsion, Reaction Wheel Assembly (RWA), and Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) systems
• Actively participate in technical design and implementation, dedicating approximately 50% of time to hands-on software development
• Drive the development of flight-critical software for spacecraft propulsion systems and attitude control
• Contribute directly to code development, reviews, and debugging for critical control algorithms
• Establish technical direction and software architecture for embedded control systems
• Oversee the integration of software with propulsion hardware, RWA mechanisms, and GNC sensors
• Manage project schedules, resource allocation, and technical risk mitigation strategies
• Collaborate with systems engineering to define and implement software requirements for complex control systems
• Ensure software quality through rigorous verification and validation processes
• Provide technical leadership and career development for team members, focusing 50% of time on team management and growth

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field
• 8+ years of experience in embedded software development with at least 2 years in a people leadership role
• Current hands-on technical proficiency in embedded control systems software development
• Experience managing teams developing software for propulsion systems, attitude control, or GNC applications
• Proficiency in embedded C/C++ programming for real-time applications
• Experience with embedded operating systems and hardware interfaces
• Knowledge of software development methodologies for mission-critical systems
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to lead technical discussions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace embedded software development
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion systems and control algorithms
• Knowledge of reaction wheel assembly systems and integration
• Experience with GNC sensor integration and algorithm development
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical contributions with leadership responsibilities
• Familiarity with model-based development tools like Simulink
• Experience applying Generative AI in the embedded software domain

 

Compensation Range for:

CO applicants is $181,144.00 - $253,601.25 WA applicants is $197,004.00 - $275,805.60

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 mili