Senior Automation Engineer

Application close date:

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!  

As an Automation Engineer at Blue Origin, you will be a key architect of the state of the art production system for our satellite constellation programs. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying cutting edge automation solutions that ensure unprecedented levels of quality, reliability, and repeatability in our manufacturing process. Your work will directly enable us to build satellites at the scale required to achieve our mission of millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth.

We are looking for a hands on engineer who is passionate about building robust and intelligent manufacturing systems. From robotic assembly and material handling to automated test and inspection, you will own the automation lifecycle from concept to commissioning. This is a foundational role with the unique opportunity to define the automation strategy and implement the core technologies for a brand-new factory.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Automation Design & Development: Conceptualize, design, and deploy automated manufacturing systems, including robotic cells, PLC controlled equipment, machine vision systems, and automated test stations.
• System Integration & Commissioning: Lead the installation, commissioning, and validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) of automation equipment on the factory floor, ensuring seamless integration with other processes and the Manufacturing Execution System (MES).
• Programming & Control: Develop and debug robust programs for PLCs (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMI screens, and 6 axis industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA).
• Tooling & Fixturing: Design, test, and implement custom End of Arm Tooling (EOAT), fixtures, and material handling systems required for automated processes.
• Design for Automation (DFA): Collaborate closely with design and industrial engineering teams during New Product Introduction (NPI) to provide critical DFA feedback, ensuring product designs are optimized for automated assembly and inspection.
• Sustainment & Optimization: Provide ongoing engineering support to the production floor, troubleshooting equipment and continuously optimizing automated processes to improve cycle time, yield, and system uptime.
• Safety & Risk Assessment: Perform thorough risk assessments on all automated equipment and implement robust safety systems compliant with industry standards (e.g., ANSI/RIA).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science or Equivalent Experience in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in a manufacturing automation/controls engineering role, with a proven track record of leading complex automation projects from concept to completion.
• Expert level ability in designing and architecting integrated, multi-station automated manufacturing systems.
• Demonstrated experience serving as the primary technical lead for automation during a major New Product Introduction (NPI) program.
• Expert level proficiency in programming PLCs and robots, with an ability to set standards and best practices for the team.
• Experience leading technical trade studies and making data-driven decisions for capital equipment selection.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience designing and implementing automation for satellite or large-scale electronics assembly and test.
• Deep experience with integrating automation equipment with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and enterprise data systems.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies like collaborative robots, AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), and IoT/Industry 4.0 concepts.
• Experience architecting and implementing robust machine safety systems from the ground up.

Compensation Range for:

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don’t meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Required for all positions: Blue’s Standard Background Check

• Required for Certain Job Profiles:  Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation

• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.

• Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

• Benefits include:  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%, and an Education Support Program.

• Paid Time Off:  Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.

• Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on “Know Your Rights,” please see here.

Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin’s Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us at [email protected]. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.

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