Test Engineer III | Launch and Test Operations (Ground Software)

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!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Launch Operations, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

As part of a hardworking team of specialists, technicians, and test operations engineers, you will work on the design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance of test facilities for various launch vehicle and spaceflight systems. This position is based at our Orbital Launch Site (OLS) in Cape Canaveral - home of our orbital-class, reusable New Glenn rocket.

We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Launch & Test Engineer to join our OLS Test Operations team within the Launch Site Execution (LSE) branch of the Launch Operations Division at Blue Origin. You will be working directly to test, maintain, inspect, and troubleshoot ground support equipment (GSE) and test-enabling hardware, including, but not limited to, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, cryogenic, and electrical equipment. You will also sit on the front-room console for New Glenn’s second stage (GS2) static hotfires, which includes additional disciplines such as Avionics and Ground Software.

Ground Software Specifics: Experienced Ground Software / Controls test engineer with proven depth on the Ground Software console (IGS, PLC, Comms, DAQ, HIL). Owns integrated ground systems, PLC automation, comms, DAQ, and HIL supporting fluid/propellant test operations. Hybrid-skill role: strong controls/automation foundation plus direct fluid-system domain experience.

Position Specific Details:

• Shifts*: A | Mon-Fri (Day), B | Mon-Fri (Evening), C | Fri-Sun (Day), D | Fri-Sun (Evening)
• Location: Space Coast, FL
• Relocation: Available
• Potential travel: Up to 25% to support offsite test campaigns (when applicable)

*Note: Shift times are subject to change depending on launch and test cadence variation.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in the Design, construct, operate, and maintain test facilities to support the development, qualification, and production of orbital rockets, lunar spacecrafts, and launch vehicle systems at Launch Complex 36 and its adjacent locations, such as Launch Complexes 11 and 12, and at our Merritt Island Launch Annex (MILA) and Module Test Area (MTA - for New Glenn’s first stage aft and forward modules) locations.
• Generate and execute test procedures involving high-pressure inert and non-inert gas systems, cryogenic & hypergolic fluid systems.
• Work with technicians to perform work on test facilities, handle test articles, and lead test operations.
• Review and interpret test data to assess facility health and performance, both at the system and component level
• Size, select, troubleshoot, and properly maintain test, launch, and fluid system components and instrumentation to ensure readiness for test and launch activities.
• Perform Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and Hazard & Operability Studies (HAZOPs) to identify potential process safety incidents, deviations, and operational issues.
• Translate engineering requirements into robust, repeatable test and maintenance processes that support Blue Origin’s mission.
• Collaborate closely with design engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and production teams to accelerate building a road to space.
• Develop and maintain test documentation, work instructions, and inspection plans for routine and corrective maintenance for ground and test systems.
• Support root cause analysis of process or product non-conformances; develop and implement corrective actions that enhance reliability and performance.
• Ensure all work aligns with applicable quality and safety standards (AS9100, ISO 9001), supporting a safe and sustainable future in space.
• Identify and complete opportunities for efficiency gains, cadence improvement, and cost reduction, optimizing our ability to achieve our mission at scale.

Team Focus & Domain Expertise

The Test and Launch Engineer will drive rate and reliability for New Glenn's critical launch infrastructure - including our massive Transporter/Erector, LC-36 Launch Pad, Mobile Test Stand, and specialized test facilities. You'll join a team that doesn't just maintain these systems but continuously reinvents them to achieve unprecedented launch cadence and reliability.

This role requires technical breadth, spanning one or more of the following disciplines: cryogenics, pneumatics, hydraulics, mechanical systems, large-scale structures, electronics, transducers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and software. Curiosity and the ability to rapidly learn across disciplines will be your greatest assets. We empower our engineers to become true subject-matter experts in their systems, with a deep understanding that drives meaningful innovation.

Your critically important work will ensure the launch facility is ready for flight or ground test operations by performing pre-flight verification testing, post-launch inspections, post-flight ground system data review, and rapidly returning the facility to a launch-ready state. You will be expected to draft and review work orders for routine and corrective maintenance procedures, maintain the configuration of the facility and equipment, and be well-versed in the contents of system safety products involving our systems. In addition to maintaining launch readiness, our team will also work to implement and commission engineering design changes that improve safety or reliability. This position will directly impact the history of space exploration and will require your dedicated commitment and detailed attention towards safe and repeatable spaceflight.

Safety excellence is our foundation - our team develops sophisticated engineering approaches to manage complex systems with uncompromising standards. Your commitment to safety-by-design will help us simultaneously improve reliability and accelerate operations.

The mission is clear: transform our launch infrastructure to support dozens of New Glenn launches annually - a cadence that requires revolutionary thinking, not incremental improvement. When challenges arise, this team rises to meet them, working with intensity and purpose to solve problems that matter.

The engineers who thrive here combine technical excellence with relentless drive. They see long-standing problems as opportunities, possess the courage to champion bold solutions, and feel genuine excitement watching their innovations help launch one of the world's most powerful rockets into orbit. If you're energized by ambitious goals and want your engineering to literally reach space, this is your mission.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, or related technical field from an accredited university.
• Built or operated automated test sequences where the controlled process was cryogenic, propellant, or pneumatic - not generic industrial/automotive automation. (Level I Engineer: 0-2 years, Level II Engineer: 2+ years, Level III Engineer: 5+ years, and Senior Level Engineer: 8+ years).
• Experience authoring/executing automated console procedures for live test operations.
• Real-time console operations experience, including off-nominal / anomaly response.
• Demonstrated PLC, DAQ, HIL, integrated ground systems (IGS), and comms/networking for test.
• Working knowledge of various systems, ranging from pressurized gas systems, cryogenics, fluid systems, hydraulics, instrumentation and controls, or structural components, depending on discipline.
• 1+ years of experience developing work instructions or test procedures to implement upgrades, perform maintenance, and verify system performance.
• Strong commitment to safety and proven ability to execute or oversee multiple projects in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to support off-shift, extended hours, and weekends as required for mission milestones.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience troubleshooting hardware and instrumentation related to fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems (hydraulics, pneumatics, cryogenics, or similar), with the ability to read schematics and P&IDs.
• Launch-campaign console time; LabVIEW / Test Stand / Python; New Glenn or comparable launch vehicle experience.
• Experience working with and an excitement to learn a broad spectrum of fluids, including experience with cryogenics, monopropellants, hydraulics, or high-pressure systems.
• Experience in testing and integrating fluid systems, including ground support systems, cryogenics, and propulsion hardware.
• Experience in developing and verifying installation and operation procedures for mechanical, fluid, or electrical systems.
• Experience with automated test equipment, calibration, and configuration management.
• Knowledge of engineering fundamentals for electrical, mechanical, and fluid design and verification, including test readiness and operational excellence.
• Proficiency in LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, AutoCAD P&ID, Winplot, Windchill, CREO, or related control and data acquisition systems & software.
• Experience with electrical equipment such as electronics, transducers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and software systems.
• Experience with leveraging AI to streamline workflow, such as data review and test automation.
• Background in hazardous operations, design for safety, and application of standards such as MIL-STD-810 and AS9100.
• Hands-on experience with 3D CAD tools, fabrication, and integration processes.

Physical Requirements:

• Test Operations is a physically active, all four (4) seasons role with both indoor and outdoor work requirements, to include rain, wind, cold, heat, & humidity.
• In addition to outside elements, this role requires:
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb multiple flights of stairs
  • Ability to work at heights

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.

California Applicant Privacy Notice

If you are a California resident, please reference the CA Applicant Privacy Notice here.

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, 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.
• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
• 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.