Manager - Data Systems and Controls Engineering, Industrial Automation, for Ground Systems Verified today

Blue Origin · Space Coast, FL · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03

Role Overview

This position supports the development and operations of New Glenn, a heavy-lift orbital launch vehicle designed to carry people and payloads to low-Earth orbit, geostationary transfer orbit, cislunar, and beyond. You will lead a team responsible for designing, implementing, and sustaining PLC and DAQ-based control systems and electrical ground support equipment for fluid processes and mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and develop a team of industrial automation engineers who design, implement, and maintain PLC and DAQ control systems for fluid processes and mechanical systems
  • Oversee the development of Launch Vehicle electrical support equipment including power systems for vehicle battery charging and discharging, heater controls, and launch release systems
  • Drive technical excellence in industrial automation solutions using Rockwell Automation and Siemens platforms
  • Establish and maintain engineering standards, best practices, and procedures for control system design, implementation, and documentation
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure control systems meet operational requirements and integrate seamlessly with other systems
  • Manage project schedules, resources, and budgets to ensure on-time delivery of control system solutions
  • Identify and mitigate technical risks associated with control system development and implementation
  • Foster innovation and continuous improvement in control system design and implementation methodologies
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering team members
  • Interface with internal stakeholders to understand requirements and ensure successful implementation of control systems
  • Evaluate and implement new technologies and approaches to enhance control system capabilities and reliability
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements in all control system designs

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and control system design
  • 1+ years of experience in engineering management or team leadership
  • Demonstrated experience with Rockwell Automation and/or Siemens PLC platforms and programming environments
  • Experience with data acquisition systems (DAQ) and industrial control networks
  • Knowledge of electrical support equipment design for complex systems
  • Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and technical drawings
  • Experience managing technical projects from concept through implementation
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Proven track record to lead teams and mentor junior engineers
  • Ability to adapt and excel in a changing, growing environment
  • Excellent communication with peers
  • Meticulous attention to detail and configuration control

Desired Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems
  • 5+ years of experience in engineering management or team leadership
  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high-reliability industries
  • Knowledge of custom circuit board design and implementation
  • Experience with launch vehicle ground support equipment or similar mission-critical systems
  • Familiarity with industrial heater control systems and power distribution systems
  • Experience with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
  • Certification in relevant areas such as Rockwell Automation or Siemens PLC programming
  • Experience with SCADA systems, HMI development, and industrial networking protocols
  • Knowledge of safety instrumented systems and functional safety standards (e.g., IEC 61508/61511)

Employment Requirements

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Basic and supplemental life insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Short and long-term disability
  • 401(k) with company match up to 5%
  • Education Support Program
  • Stock Options for all regular employees working at least 20 hours per week
  • Paid Time Off: up to 4 weeks per year and up to 14 company-paid holidays
  • Performance-based bonuses (eligibility and amounts subject to change)