Application close date:
08/3/2026
We are seeking a
Principal Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C) Communications System Engineer to lead the architecture, design, integration, and validation of spacecraft TT&C communication systems. This role is responsible for ensuring reliable end-to-end communications between spacecraft and ground systems across all mission phases, from launch through on-orbit operations.
The ideal candidate has deep expertise in RF systems, satellite communications architecture, and system-of-systems engineering, with a strong track record of delivering mission-critical space communication solutions.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Lead end-to-end system design of TT&C communication architectures for space missions
- Build, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary engineering team comprising RF, antenna, and DSP engineers to deliver integrated communication solutions
- Develop and maintain RF link budgets across all mission phases (LEOP, commissioning, nominal operations)
- Define system requirements, interfaces, and performance specifications for TT&C subsystems
- Integrate spacecraft communication systems with ground stations, antennas, modems, and network infrastructure
- Perform system-level analysis including signal integrity, link availability, and margin assessments
- Ensure robust command uplink and telemetry downlink performance under varying orbital and environmental conditions
- Support spacecraft integration, testing, validation, and launch readiness activities
- Troubleshoot and resolve RF and communications anomalies during testing and operations
- Coordinate with RF, flight dynamics, avionics, payload, and mission operations teams
- Support regulatory compliance activities (frequency allocation, licensing, ITU/FCC coordination)
- Lead technical reviews, design audits, and verification/validation campaigns
- Mentor junior and mid-level engineers and contribute to team technical growth
Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
- 8-12+ years of experience in satellite communications, RF engineering, or space systems engineering
- Strong expertise in TT&C system design and satellite communications link analysis
- Hands-on experience with RF system modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, STK, or equivalent)
- Solid understanding of modulation schemes, coding, synchronization, and Doppler effects in space links
- Experience with S-band, X-band, and/or Ka-band communication systems
- Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and ground segment architectures
- Strong analytical, debugging, and system-level problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications:- Experience with operational satellite missions or spacecraft commissioning
- Familiarity with CCSDS standards and space communication protocols
- Experience with phased array antennas, adaptive beamforming, or advanced RF systems
- Knowledge of spectrum management and international regulatory frameworks (ITU, FCC)
- Programming/scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for automation and analysis
- Experience working in high-reliability or mission-critical aerospace environments
- Prior technical leadership or systems engineering ownership experience
Base Pay Range for:
CA applicants is $230,773.00 - $323,081.85WA applicants is $230,773.00 - $323,081.85
Other site ranges may differCulture StatementDon'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.
Benefits- Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
- Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
- Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
- Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.
