Sr. Solar Array Design Engineer - Orbital Reef Program

$156,911 - $219,675/Yr

Blue Origin - Los Angeles, CA

Full-time - Senior

Los Angeles, CA

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The Sr. Solar Array Design Engineer for the Orbital Reef Program at Blue Origin is responsible for designing and developing advanced solar array systems for space vehicles, particularly focusing on flexible solar arrays. This role is integral to the Space Systems Development (SSD) business unit, which aims to create sustainable systems for living and working in space. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in solar array design and a commitment to the exploration and habitation of space.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced solar array systems for space vehicles, focusing on flexible solar arrays.
• Drive projects from conception through implementation, ensuring high standards of quality and timely delivery despite technical and logistical challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create and refine design specifications, aiming for operational excellence and innovation.
• Evaluate and perform risk assessments on design choices, proactively troubleshooting and resolving issues to prevent downstream errors.
• Effectively lead technical interactions with engineering teams, component suppliers, and customers.
• Foster a collaborative environment, embracing diverse viewpoints to spur innovation and maintain a cohesive, mission-driven team dynamic.
• Maintain an unwavering commitment to learning and improvement, seeking and integrating feedback for personal and team growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in space solar array systems design, development, and test, with direct experience in flexible/deployable solar arrays.
• Detailed knowledge of electrical power generation using photovoltaic devices including III-V and silicon solar cells.
• Detailed understanding of space solar array design, manufacturing, and testing including cell selection, CIC stringing and laydown, panel and wing assembly, and acceptance and qualification testing.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex project requirements and achieve exceptional outcomes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a track record of following through on commitments and achieving goals.
• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to articulate technical concepts to a diverse audience.
• A history of facing challenges with tenacity and resilience, showing an optimistic and determined attitude.
• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and contribute to a culture of inclusion.

Nice-to-haves

• Detailed knowledge of solar array wire harnessing methods and interconnects for rigid and flexible solar arrays.
• Ten years of experience in space solar array systems design, development, and test, with direct experience in flexible/deployable solar arrays.

Benefits

• 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, and up to 14 company-paid holidays
• Discretionary bonus designed to reward individual contributions and allow employees to share in company results.