Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.
Technical Program Manager, Optical Payload Software - TeraWaveAbout the RoleBlue Origin's TeraWave program is developing cutting-edge free-space optical communication terminals to enable high-bandwidth connectivity for enterprise and government customers. We are seeking a Technical Program Manager (TPM) to lead the software development effort for optical payload and ground terminals, from initial concept through delivery. This role requires a unique combination of software program management expertise and sufficient technical depth in optical and photonic systems to drive effective cross-functional execution.
ResponsibilitiesProgram Management
- Own end-to-end planning, scheduling, and execution for optical payload software development, initially focused on flight software and expanding to manufacturing test software as the program matures
- Define and maintain integrated master schedules (IMS), identifying the critical path and managing dependencies across software, hardware, and systems teams
- Track program milestones, deliverables, risks, and issues, driving resolution with urgency
- Manage budgets, resource allocation, and forecasting across the software development effort
- Lead program reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.) and executive-level status reporting
Technical Leadership
- Serve as the technical integrator across software, optical, mechanical, and electrical disciplines
- Drive architecture trades, design decisions, and requirements decomposition for payload software
- Identify technical risks early and lead mitigation planning
- Translate complex engineering challenges into actionable program decisions
- Partner with systems engineering to ensure terminal performance requirements and manufacturing test software requirements are met
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Align stakeholders across software engineering, systems engineering, supply chain, manufacturing, test, and operations
- Coordinate with hardware teams and systems-level teams to ensure software integration compatibility
- Communicate program status clearly to leadership and customers
QualificationsRequired
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer science, optical engineering, physics, or a related field
- 8+ years of experience in software or hardware development programs
- 3+ years in a TPM, program management, or systems engineering leadership role
- Demonstrated experience managing complex software development programs through the full lifecycle, from concept through production
- Working knowledge of optical systems (free-space optics, fiber optics, photonics, or similar) and their manufacturing test requirements
- Proficiency with scheduling tools such as MS Project or Smartsheet
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Preferred
- Experience with laser communication terminals, lidar, or electro-optical systems
- Background in space, aerospace, or defense software and hardware development
- PMP certification or equivalent
- Experience with agile or hybrid development methodologies
Base Pay Range for:
WA applicants is $145,188.00 - $203,263.20
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.
