Principal Engineer, Spacecraft Imaging Solutions

2 weeks ago


Seattle, Washington, United States Blue Origin Full time
Position Overview:
At Blue Origin, we aspire to create a future where countless individuals thrive in space, contributing to the welfare of our planet.

We are dedicated to engineering reusable, secure, and cost-effective space vehicles and systems, fostering a culture rooted in safety, teamwork, and inclusivity.

Join our dynamic team of innovators as we write new chapters in the annals of space exploration.

This position is integral to the Lunar Permanence division, focusing on the development of Blue Origin's diverse Blue Moon lander product lines.

To advance our mission of enabling a sustainable human presence in space, we are constructing robust infrastructure for transporting crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface.

As a key member of a dedicated team of diverse, multidisciplinary engineers, you will take the lead in the development of various camera and optical sensor systems designed for imaging, autonomous navigation, and other applications within Blue Origin's spacecraft.

This role is inherently interdisciplinary, necessitating collaboration with a wide array of internal stakeholders and suppliers.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Formulate, implement, and oversee plans for the design, development, testing, and qualification of multiple camera and optical sensor system product lines.
  • Conduct evaluations on image sensor alternatives, optical configurations, and image processing methodologies to establish optimal product specifications.
  • Guide a team of engineers and technicians across various product teams to ensure timely and budget-compliant delivery of qualified product solutions.
  • Collaborate with different product and spacecraft teams to ascertain camera requirements, assist in developing imaging architectures, and provide product definitions that meet specified criteria.
  • Engage with the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) team to identify optical sensor needs, support navigation architecture formulation, and deliver product definitions that align with requirements.
  • Act as a subject matter expert on cameras and optical systems.
  • Regularly coordinate with manufacturing operations, supply chain, and other teams to ensure seamless execution of development initiatives.
  • Identify overarching capabilities and requirements across Blue Origin, consolidate demand, and devise efficient strategies for the development of cameras and optical sensors.
  • Work with product teams to comprehend their product portfolio and long-term applicability, informing the development of their camera and sensor product roadmaps.
  • Establish product evolution strategies for optical systems, executing projects aimed at continuous improvement and overseeing their integration into our spacecraft.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to enhance performance, enable new capabilities, reduce costs, and shorten production cycles.

Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Over 10 years of experience in optical design, imaging sensors, and precision opto-mechanical assemblies.
Proven experience in the development, prototyping, testing, and calibration of optical imaging systems across aerospace, automotive, medical, or robotics sectors.
Strong understanding of imaging system fundamentals and demonstrated capability in conducting comprehensive optical and image quality assessments (focus/MTF, radiometry and spectral response, distortion/camera models, boresight alignment, etc.).
Experience with optical system modeling and simulation using tools such as ZEMAX, CODE V, LightTools, etc.
In-depth knowledge of optical imaging system components (lenses, sensors, sensor and image processing electronics, etc.) and their characterization.
Familiarity with image processing techniques to inform camera and sensor evaluations.
Experience in managing product schedules, costs, deliveries, and supplier relationships.
Ability to challenge conventional approaches, dissect issues to their core elements, and drive efficient product solutions with a focus on long-term goals and sustainability.
Excellent verbal communication skills to influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
Strong technical background or experience in technical writing.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident, or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred Qualifications:
Ability to lead a broad multidisciplinary team while maintaining technical rigor and addressing complex technical challenges.
Experience in developing cameras, sensors, and instruments for space applications and environments.
Demonstrated success in leading technical teams through multiple successful product launches.
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match, and an Education Support Program.
Paid Time Off:
Up to four weeks of paid time off annually, plus up to 14 company-paid holidays.
Discretionary Bonus:
Bonuses awarded based on individual contributions and company performance.

Blue Origin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse workforce. We hire and promote individuals based on their qualifications, performance, and abilities, fostering a workplace that values trust, equality, and teamwork.

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