Engineer Principal - Space Vehicle Systems Test (AI&T)

Job Description
BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems (SMS) is seeking an action-oriented Principal Engineer with deep intellectual curiosity to lead the testing execution of space flight hardware. As a technical leader within the Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit, you will drive the successful delivery of high-impact, discriminating technologies for our customers' most critical missions.
This is a high-visibility role where you will mentor a team of engineers and technicians to ensure the flawless execution of spacecraft test campaigns. You will be responsible for:

• Leading significant test campaigns for large-scale bus and space vehicle programs.
• Architecting new business pursuits by defining technical AI&T strategies.
• Driving the company's strategic goals through technical excellence and operational leadership.

The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.
What You'll Do:

• Technical Leadership: Define program integration and test approaches and generate comprehensive AI&T flows.
• Execution: Direct the integration and testing of spacecraft hardware within cleanroom and lab environments to verify requirements and calibrate performance.
• Strategic Planning: Identify necessary GSE, facilities, and equipment for AI&T and launch operations.
• Proposal Development: Author and review proposal responses and study reports, focusing on AI&T for spacecraft buses and integrated vehicles.
• Optimization: Develop creative solutions to reduce cost, schedule, and risk while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Financial Oversight: Provide accurate cost and schedule estimates for assembly, integration, and launch operations.
• Provide or support strategic direction and oversight for all AI&T operations.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Establish and track key performance metrics to ensure operational success.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
• May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
• May access other facilities in various weather conditions.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
• Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
• Experience in the testing of spacecraft, space vehicles, and their related components and systems.
• Experience in spacecraft environmental testing, performing pre and post validation of the spacecraft systems.
• Experience with spacecraft command and control systems, simulators, software test benches and other electrical ground support equipment.
• Experience with software in support of testing.
• Experience and interest in cost and schedule estimation activities and proposal efforts and / or IRAD activities.
• Presentation skills and communication skills a must.
• Ability to understand test processes including defining test strategies, test plans, and test procedures.
• Attention to detail while appreciating the bigger picture of the complex and ambitious projects that we take on at BAE Systems SMS.
• Candidate should be proficient in MS Office tools and have computer skills.
• Applicants selected may be subjected to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

#LI-AP1
A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Familiarity with software testing at various levels, unit, integration, end-to-end, is highly desired.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages is desired: JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or Go.
• Experience with COSMOS Command and Control Software.
• Experience with GitLab.
• Familiarity with software unit testing is desired.
• Direct experience with setting up and configuring RF GSE, including familiarity with testing measurement tools (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters).
• Identify and mitigate technical and schedule risks, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and services.
• Drive business growth through innovative solutions, process improvements, and strategic partnerships.
• Develop and manage budgets, ensuring cost-effective delivery of AI&T services.
• Negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and customer requirements.
• Lead change management initiatives, ensuring seamless transition to new processes, technologies, or organizational structures.
• Space or military experience highly desired.
• Demonstrated, mentoring, leadership and team building skills are desired.
• Knowledge and test experience using test automation applications and tools is desirable.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems, Inc.
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.