Senior Photonics Systems Engineer

BLUE ORIGIN

Senior Photonics Systems Engineer responsible for developing laser communication terminals for space missions. Leading design and integration of photonic systems with a focus on reliability and performance.

Posted 4/14/2026full-timeLos Angeles • California, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $156,802 - $219,522 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AssemblyPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own the end-to-end modem photonics architecture for a state-of-the-art space laser communication terminal
Define and integrate the full optical chain—including seed and LO lasers, modulators, optical amplifiers, filters, polarization control, and receivers
Lead make/buy decisions and guide supplier selection, qualification, and performance management for critical photonic components
Define requirements, own optical link budgets and conduct architecture trade studies for space laser communication modem photonics
Maintain rigorous documentation of requirements, designs, ICDs, procedures, and results; contribute to FMEAs and design reviews
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (DSP/software, RF/electronics, optics, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain) to achieve design-for-manufacture and design-for-test
Lead breadboard and brassboard development to de-risk architecture choices and mature to flight design
Define and execute verification and validation plans, including optical performance (OSNR, linewidth, RIN, extinction ratio, EVM/BER), stability, and latency

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum of 7 years of experience in engineering roles supporting complex systems such as lasers, optics, electronics, or aerospace hardware, with at least 3 years in lead/architect roles
Demonstrated experience with photonics systems involving fiber-based electro‑optic modulators and optical receivers
In-depth knowledge of lasers and photonics (e.g., narrow-linewidth lasers, photodiodes, nonlinear optics, fiber components/assembly, and laser system fabrication)
Experience developing functional specifications, verification plans, and functional test procedures for optical communication systems
Proficiency in system characterization, environmental testing, and data analysis for photonic subsystems
Ability to communicate complex technical information to broad audiences and collaborate across disciplines to drive decisions
Hands-on experience with test frameworks and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB and/or Python; familiarity with LabVIEW)
Experience with optical system simulation tools (e.g., VPIphotonics, OptiSystem, or similar)
MS degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Optics/Optical Sciences, or a related field; OR equivalent work experience

Benefits

Comp & perks

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%
Education Support Program
Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours
Up to 14 company-paid holidays
Eligibility for benefits and bonuses based on individual contributions

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

modem photonics architectureoptical chain integrationfiber-based electro-optic modulatorsoptical receiversnarrow-linewidth lasersphotodiodesnonlinear opticssystem characterizationenvironmental testingdata analysis

Soft Skills

communication of complex technical informationcollaboration across disciplinesleadershipdecision-making