Firmware / Software Engineer - Optical Communications - Terawave

Firmware/Software Engineer

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of 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 who require reliable connectivity for critical operations.

The Emerging Systems business unit at Blue Origin is pioneering the future of space-based communications with TeraWave, a revolutionary satellite communications network designed to deliver symmetrical data speeds of up to 6 Tbps anywhere on Earth. This multi-orbit constellation will consist of 5,408 optically interconnected satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), providing enterprise-grade connectivity for critical operations worldwide.

We are seeking a Firmware/Software Engineer to design, implement, and validate embedded control software for fiber/laser amplifier modules used in space optical communication links. You'll own low-level drivers, control loops, telemetry, and fault management from prototype bring-up through qualification and production, partnering closely with photonics, electrical, and test engineers.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Define and implement embedded control for optical amplifiers: pump diode current/temperature control, TEC/heater loops (PID), interlocks, power sequencing, and calibration
• Develop robust device drivers and interfaces for ADC/DAC, GPIO, timers, I2C/SPI/UART, and system level buses (e.g., CAN, RS422/485, SpaceWire/Ethernet as applicable)
• Architect RTOS or bare metal applications, state machines, and fault detection/isolation/recovery (FDIR); implement safe states, and data logging
• Bring up new hardware: bootloaders, board diagnostics, production test firmware, and hardware in the loop (HIL) setups
• Automate test and data analysis for lab characterization, regression, and manufacturing test
• Ensure software quality: requirements and ICDs, code reviews, unit/integration testing, static analysis, and CI workflows
• Support environmental and qualification testing (TVAC, vibration, shock) and correlate results to improve robustness
• Collaborate on EMI/EMC aware firmware behaviors (timing, filtering, grounding strategies) and radiation tolerant practices (EDAC/ECC, resets, retry logic)

Minimum qualifications include:

• BS/MS in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
• 5+ years of embedded firmware experience delivering production hardware (MCU/SoC) with C/C++
• Hands on development with RTOS or bare metal systems, real time control loops, and sensor/actuator interfacing
• Proficiency with low level peripherals (ADC/DAC, I2C/SPI/UART, timers/PWM) and board bring-up
• Experience authoring requirements, ICDs, and test plans; strong debugging skills with lab instruments (scope, logic analyzer, power supplies)
• Version control (Git) and software quality practices (code reviews, unit testing, static analysis)

Preferred qualifications include:

• Experience controlling laser/optical amplifier subsystems (pump drivers, photodiode feedback, TECs and safety interlocks) and related calibration
• Experience with test automation and data processing; familiarity with PyVISA/SCPI and HIL frameworks
• Interface experience with system buses used in aerospace
• Reliability focused design: bootloader fail safe/secure update, telemetry/health monitoring
• Awareness of space environment considerations (radiation effects, derating), EMI/EMC mitigation in firmware, and environmental testing (TVAC, vibe)

At Blue Origin, you'll be part of a historic mission to make space accessible to millions. Our In-Space Systems team is developing cutting-edge optical communications technology that will revolutionize how we transfer data in space. You'll work with world-class engineers in a collaborative environment where innovation is celebrated, and your contributions directly impact mission success. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible in space technology.

Join us in our mission to build a road to space so our children can build the future!