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.

• 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).

• 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.

• 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:

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.