Dir, Automation Integration Design

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 part of the Operation organization for known project, you will define, plan, and drive the automation strategy, roadmap, and execution of AI-powered product level automation solutions for product development ad FATP. You will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for designing, deploying, and continuously improving the AI based automation at the product level with capability to simplify end to end integration of a complex product. You will manage the cost reduction of systems we manufacturing by incorporating low cost precision automation while driving measurable improvements in safety, quality, throughput, and efficiency. You will bring together controls engineering, intelligent robotics, machine learning, and IoT technologies to modernize and scale how we manufacture, while partnering closely with senior leaders across Manufacturing, Engineering, Data Science, and Operations to align automation investments with production programs and business goals. 

Special Mentions 

• Relocation provided 
• Travel expected up to 70% of the time 
• Interviews will include a technical assessment 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

• Define and own the automation strategy and multi-year roadmap for Blue Origin's manufacturing environment, aligning with production programs, quality goals, and operational priorities 
• Build, lead, and develop a multidisciplinary team of automation engineers, controls engineers, robotics specialists, and AI/data integration professionals supporting manufacturing operations 
• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of automation programs across the manufacturing environment - from concept and business case through design, implementation, commissioning, and ongoing support 
• Champion the adoption of AI and Industry 4.0 technologies, including machine learning, computer vision, predictive maintenance, closed-loop process control, and autonomous inspection systems 
• Collaborate with data science and AI teams to integrate machine learning and predictive analytics into manufacturing systems, enabling data-driven and closed-loop process optimization 
• Drive the development and standardization of SCADA and IoT platforms (Ignition, Kepware, AWS IoT, etc.) to ensure seamless connectivity between the factory floor and AI/analytics layers 
• Establish and enforce engineering standards, best practices, and governance frameworks across the automation and controls team 
• Own the automation team's budget, resource allocation, and capital investment planning, ensuring maximum ROI on automation initiatives 
• Track and report on key performance metrics - including automation uptime, quality improvements, cycle time reductions, and cost savings - to demonstrate business impact 
• Mentor and grow senior technical talent, building the next generation of automation leaders within Blue Origin's manufacturing organization 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• M.S. degree or higher in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Electrical, Controls, Computer Science, or a related engineering field 
• 10+ years of progressive engineering experience in manufacturing automation, controls, or a related discipline 
• Demonstrated experience defining and executing automation strategies and roadmaps that delivered measurable manufacturing improvements in safety, quality, or efficiency 
• Strong working knowledge of industrial automation systems, including PLCs, robotics, SCADA, IoT, and controls architectures, with proven understanding of AI/ML applications in manufacturing environments 
• 5+ years of senior leadership experience managing and scaling multidisciplinary automation teams in a manufacturing environment, including hiring, mentoring, and developing senior technical talent 
• 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: 

• M.S. or higher in a relevant engineering, computer science, or technical field 
• Experience leading digital transformation or Industry 4.0 initiatives in an aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing environment 
• Hands-on background in controls engineering, robotics, or automation, providing technical credibility and the ability to guide the team through complex manufacturing challenges 
• Experience with AI/ML integration in manufacturing systems, including computer vision, machine learning model deployment, and digital twin development 
• Familiarity with IoT architectures, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and data pipelines for manufacturing analytics 
• Knowledge of relevant manufacturing safety and controls standards (IEC 61131, ANSI B11, NFPA 79, RIA 15.06) 
• Experience with precision manufacturing processes, CNC machines, metrology systems, and quality inspection technologies 

Base Pay 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.

• 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.