Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer - TeraWave Verified today
About TeraWave
Blue Origin is pioneering space-based connectivity with TeraWave, a satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This network will service tens of thousands of enterprise, data center, and government users requiring reliable connectivity for critical operations.
The Role
As Principal Phased Array Antenna Engineer, you will design the physical hardware that forms the backbone of our in-space communication network. You will be a foundational member of a new, in-house team creating the next generation of high-frequency phased array antennas for Blue Origin's space vehicles. You will own the antenna system design from the ground up, making critical architectural decisions that directly impact our ability to communicate in deep space.
This is a technical leadership role. You will translate mission needs into robust, space-qualified RF hardware and serve as the team's center of gravity for antenna theory, EM simulation, and array design. You will work side-by-side with DSP Architects and system engineers to deliver high-performance communication systems.
Responsibilities
- Own significant components of end-to-end design of advanced phased array antennas for microwave and millimeter-wave applications (X, Ku, Ka-bands), from radiating element to full array.
- Define system-level RF architectures and lead trades between analog, digital, and hybrid beamforming approaches to meet platform constraints (SWaP, thermal, etc.).
- Guide and perform critical electromagnetic (EM) simulations using tools like HFSS, CST, and TICRA to optimize array performance, scan volume, and impedance matching.
- Collaborate closely with RFIC/MMIC, T/R module, DSP, mechanical, and thermal engineers to define requirements and ensure cohesive system design.
- Oversee the entire hardware lifecycle, guiding fabrication, characterization, and environmental qualification (thermal-vac, vibration, radiation) of antenna systems.
- Mentor other engineers and drive technical excellence through rigorous design reviews and data analysis.
Minimum Qualifications
- B.S. in Electrical Engineering with 10+ years of experience in RF antenna design, OR M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field with 5+ years of experience in RF antenna design.
- Deep expertise in electromagnetic theory and its application to antenna design, particularly for phased arrays.
- Proven experience leading the design of an antenna or phased array system.
- Proficiency with at least one major 3D electromagnetic simulation tool (e.g., HFSS, CST).
- Understanding of trade-offs between different beamforming architectures (analog, digital, hybrid).
- Familiarity with antenna measurement techniques and anechoic chamber testing.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with focus on Electromagnetics or Antennas.
- Track record of taking a complex antenna system from initial concept through production and successful deployment, ideally for space applications.
- Experience designing and developing high-frequency phased arrays at mm-Wave (e.g., Ka, V, E-band).
- Experience with design and development of associated hardware such as feed networks, polarizers, or waveguides.
- Familiarity with RFIC/MMIC technologies and T/R module design considerations.
- Knowledge of array calibration techniques and algorithms.
- Patents or publications in antenna or phased array design.
Compensation and Location
Base pay range for CA, VA, and WA applicants: $230,773.00 to $323,081.85 per year. Other site ranges may differ.
This role is available at 3 locations.
Employment Details
U.S. citizenship, U.S. national status, current Green Card, or lawful admission as a refugee or asylee is required. Blue's Standard Background Check is required for all positions.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, 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 regular employees (20+ hours/week)
- Paid Time Off: up to four weeks per year based on scheduled hours, plus up to 14 company-paid holidays