Principal Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C) Communications System Engineer Verified today
About the Role
Blue Origin is pioneering space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network delivering symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO).
We are seeking a Principal Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) Communications System Engineer to lead the architecture, design, integration, and validation of spacecraft TT&C communication systems. You will ensure reliable end-to-end communications between spacecraft and ground systems across all mission phases, from launch through on-orbit operations.
Key Responsibilities
- 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
- 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 including frequency allocation, licensing, and 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 to 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 (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
Compensation and Benefits
Base pay range for CA and WA applicants: $230,773.00 to $323,081.85. Other site ranges may differ.
Benefits include medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match of up to 5%, Education Support Program, stock options for regular employees (20+ hours/week), and up to four weeks paid time off per year plus up to 14 company-paid holidays.
Employment Requirements
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. Blue's Standard Background Check is required for all positions.