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Blue Origin · 12 hours ago

Principal Software Engineer - Emerging Systems

Greater Seattle Area

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff

$231K/yr - $323K/yr

10+ years exp

Blue Origin is working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems. The Principal Software Engineer will drive the development of autonomous systems for next-generation satellite systems, defining software architecture and autonomy capabilities to enhance reliability and intelligence in space operations.

AerospaceManufacturingNational SecurityRenewable Energy

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Serve as the technical authority for satellite software architecture and autonomous systems development, establishing technical direction and standards for the team

Define and implement the technical roadmap for satellite autonomy capabilities, including state machines, decision-making algorithms, and fault management systems

Design robust, scalable software architectures for space applications that meet rigorous reliability and safety requirements while enabling advanced autonomous capabilities

Lead a multidisciplinary team of software engineers and autonomy specialists, providing technical mentorship and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence

Guide the development of sophisticated algorithms for satellite operations, including autonomous navigation, fault detection and recovery, and resource optimization

Ensure seamless integration of software systems with spacecraft hardware, ground systems, and other mission elements

Oversee the implementation of safety-critical software components that adhere to the highest standards of reliability and fault tolerance

Assess emerging technologies and methodologies in machine learning, autonomous systems, and software engineering for potential application to satellite programs

Collaborate with cross-functional teams including systems engineering, hardware development, operations, and external partners to align software capabilities with mission requirements

Qualification

C++PythonAutonomous systemsSoftware architectureFault management systemsReal-time operating systemsEmbedded software developmentVersion control (Git)Machine learningSatellite operationsSpace environment knowledgeSpacecraft communication protocolsModel-based systems engineeringTechnical leadershipTeam managementMentoring

Required

B.S. degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field

10+ years of experience in software development for complex systems, with at least 5 years focused on autonomous systems, robotics, or space applications

Demonstrated expertise in C++ and Python programming in Linux environments

Proven experience architecting and implementing state machine-based control systems and autonomous decision-making frameworks

Strong background in fault management systems for safety-critical applications

Experience with real-time operating systems and embedded software development

Proficiency with version control systems, particularly Git, and modern software development practices

Track record of technical leadership in complex software projects, including team management and mentoring