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

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

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.
• Defining program integration and test approaches and generating comprehensive AI&T flows.
• Directing the integration and testing of spacecraft hardware within cleanroom and lab environments to verify requirements and calibrate performance.
• Identifying necessary GSE, facilities, and equipment for AI&T and launch operations.
• Authoring and reviewing proposal responses and study reports, focusing on AI&T for spacecraft buses and integrated vehicles.
• Developing creative solutions to reduce cost, schedule, and risk while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Providing accurate cost and schedule estimates for assembly, integration, and launch operations.
• Providing or supporting strategic direction and oversight for all AI&T operations.
• Mentoring and developing a high-performing team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Establishing and tracking key performance metrics to ensure operational success.
• Maintaining a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interacting appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Performing other duties as necessary.

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. 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 qualifications

• 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.
• 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. 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 qualifications

• 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: JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or Go.
• Experience with COSMOS Command and Control Software.
• Experience with GitLab.
• Familiarity with software unit testing.
• Direct experience with setting up and configuring RF GSE, including familiarity with testing measurement tools (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters).
• Ability to identify and mitigate technical and schedule risks, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and services.
• Ability to drive business growth through innovative solutions, process improvements, and strategic partnerships.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets, ensuring cost-effective delivery of AI&T services.
• Ability to negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and customer requirements.
• Ability to lead change management initiatives, ensuring seamless transition to new processes, technologies, or organizational structures.
• Space or military experience.
• Demonstrated mentoring, leadership and team building skills.
• Knowledge and test experience using test automation applications and tools.

Pay

Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762. 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.

Benefits

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.