Principal Optical Hardware Engineer

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the-art optical designs for space-based and airborne optical systems.
• Help BAE Systems advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for space-based applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
• Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
• Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross-disciplinary environment.
• Participate in and present at design reviews.
• Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of-the-art optical components.
• Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.
• 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 to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Work Environment

• This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site three or more 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.
• Ability to work at all Colorado campuses (Boulder, Broomfield, and Westminster) for extended periods of time.

Requirements

• 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.
• Minimum of 3 years or more of space-based or airborne instrument optical hardware experience in industry.
• Demonstrate mastery of optical alignment of complex systems, including reflective and refractive designs for space-based or airborne optical instruments.
• Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 3 mm to meter class.
• Excellent communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• 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

• An Optical Engineering degree.
• A Master’s degree or PhD in Optical Engineering.

Pay

Full-Time Salary Range: $118,095 - $200,762. 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

At BAE Systems, 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.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Employee assistance program and a legal plan.
• Perks including discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance.
• Paid time off, paid holidays, and other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave.
• Company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards.
• Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.