Principal Technical Lead Engineer, Rocket Engine Avionics & Control Systems

Position Overview Principal Technical Lead Engineer for Rocket Engine Avionics & Control Systems – serves as the primary technical authority for all avionics systems within a specific rocket engine program. Defines and drives the technical architecture, owns the avionics system technical baseline, leads design reviews, and ensures all avionics and control system deliverables meet safety, performance, and reliability standards. Responsibilities Own the avionics and control system technical baseline for the assigned rocket engine program. Define and drive the technical vision, architecture, and long‑term engineering roadmap. Lead decomposition and allocation of engine‑specific avionics requirements; establish and maintain system‑level requirements, interface control documents, and design standards. Lead all design reviews with full technical approval authority; participate as a non‑advocate reviewer for cross‑program decisions. Identify, characterize, and resolve complex system‑level technical risks across multiple concurrent development programs. Provide technical oversight and direction for integration of avionics hardware, software, control algorithms, sensors, actuation, and harnessing into test facilities and rockets. Develop and maintain model‑based design frameworks, simulation environments, and hardware‑in‑the-loop test strategies. Collaborate with program leadership, chief engineers, and managers to align execution with cost, schedule, and mission objectives. Champion engineering best practices, design criteria, and lessons learned across the organization. Lead identification, assessment, and mitigation of technical risks; drive technology maturation and emerging opportunities. Mentor and develop engineers at all levels; contribute to a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning. Support technical oversight during critical test campaigns and flight operations, both on‑site and remotely. Partner with Enterprise functions to ensure producibility, reliability, and cost‑effectiveness of designs. Minimum Qualifications Passion for our mission: Millions of people living and working in space. B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or closely related field. 10+ years of experience in avionics systems, control systems, or related engineering, with progression to senior/lead roles. Deep expertise in avionics architecture, embedded systems design, and control system development for flight or propulsion. Track record of leading complex, cross‑functional technical programs from concept through qualification and deployment. Strong knowledge of control theory, digital signal processing, and closed‑loop system design for engine or propulsion. Experience defining and managing system‑level requirements, interfaces, and verification/validation strategies across hardware and software. Ability to lead and influence technical teams and stakeholders without direct authority. Proficiency in model‑based design and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) and scripting languages (Python or equivalent). Experience with data communication protocols (EtherCAT, CAN, SpaceWire, MIL‑STD‑1553, or similar). Ability to build trusting and effective working relationships that improve team performance. Strong written and verbal communication skills for conveying complex technical topics to senior leadership. U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or lawful admission as a refugee or asylum seeker. Preferred Qualifications M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline. Experience across multiple rocket engine or propulsion programs at varying development stages. Familiarity with safety‑critical software development standards (DO‑178C, IEC 61508, or equivalent). Experience with fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) design for flight‑critical avionics. Proficiency in Rust, C, or C++ for embedded or real‑time systems development. Experience with physics‑based modeling tools (AMESIM, Modelica, or similar). Familiarity with configuration management, requirements management, and product lifecycle tools (Windchill, DOORS, etc.). Experience supporting or leading test campaigns at rocket engine test facilities. Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain multi‑year product and technology roadmaps. Compensation WA applicants: $183,193.00 – $256,469.85. Other site ranges may differ. 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. Paid time off: up to 4 weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company‑paid holidays. Eligible for performance bonuses and other discretionary compensation. Export Control Regulations Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals, permanent residents, or lawful immigrants. Background Check Required Background checks for all positions; additional checks as required for specific job profiles. Equal Employment Opportunity Blue Origin is a proud Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated workforce. We support a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, providing equal opportunities for all qualified applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. #J-18808-Ljbffr