Principal Engineer – Spacecraft System Test Engineer (AI&T)

Job Description

Minimum $15,000 Sign on Bonus being offered for external hires

BAE Systems Aerospace & Mission Systems (AMS) is is seeking a Principal Engineer to drive the testing and execution of space flight hardware. This role is designed for a technical expert who is equally passionate about hands-on execution and technical leadership. Whether acting as the primary lead for a campaign or as a senior individual contributor supporting critical test paths, you will ensure the successful delivery of high-impact technologies for our customers' most critical missions.

You will operate as a technical pillar within the Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit, utilizing your deep expertise to verify spacecraft performance and mentor others in the art of flight hardware testing.

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:

• Execution & Leadership: Lead or directly support the integration and testing of spacecraft hardware within cleanrooms and lab environments to verify requirements and calibrate performance.
• Technical Strategy: Define program integration and test approaches and generate comprehensive AI&T flows, ensuring all technical risks are mitigated.
• SME Guidance: Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the team, providing mentorship to engineers and technicians while remaining deeply involved in the technical execution of test campaigns.
• Infrastructure Planning: Identify and specify the necessary GSE, facilities, and equipment required for successful AI&T and launch operations.
• Proposal & Study Support: Contribute technical expertise to proposal responses and study reports, focusing on the AI&T architecture for spacecraft buses and integrated vehicles.
• Process Optimization: Develop and implement creative technical solutions to reduce cost, schedule, and risk while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• 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.

This role is centered in our high-tech labs and cleanrooms. Because we work with physical flight hardware, this position requires regular in-person engagement (5 days per week) at our primary work location.

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 related degree, i.e., Master’s Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of related 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.
• A current, active Top Secret/SCI security clearance is required.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Proven experience in spacecraft environmental testing and performing pre- and post-validation of spacecraft systems.
  • Proficiency with spacecraft command and control systems, simulators, software test benches, and electrical ground support equipment (EGSE).
  • Demonstrated expertise in the full test lifecycle, including defining test strategies, test plans, and detailed test procedures.
• Proficiency in MS Office tools and possess strong general computer skills.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills are essential for coordinating across cross-functional teams.

#LI-MA2

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Modern Software Stack: Proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: Python, Ruby, JavaScript, or Go
• DevOps & Tools: Experience with GitLab and knowledge of test automation applications and tools.
• Specialized Software: Direct experience with COSMOS Command and Control Software.
• RF Expertise: Experience setting up and configuring RF GSE, including familiarity with measurement tools such as signal generators, spectrum analyzers, and power meters.
• Software Testing: Familiarity with software testing at various levels, including unit, integration, and end-to-end testing.
• Strategic Leadership: Experience in cost and schedule estimation, proposal development, and IRAD activities.
• Industry Background: Prior experience in space or military programs is highly desired.

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 the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you’ll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.

Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most.

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.

Multiple positions may be available on this opening.