The Role Leads sensor, optical systems, materials science, and nonlinear optics efforts across R D and production programs. Responsibilities include GmAPD detector calibration and testing, optical coating and radiation-hardening development, sensor concept development, materials analysis, prototyping, technical roadmaps, proposal support, customer interaction, and technical leadership. The role requires collaboration across engineering and business organizations and work in office, laboratory, production, and cleanroom environments. Summary Generated by Built In Job Description BAE Systems seeks a leader with a broad technical background. The ideal candidate is an optical and material science SME with experience in nonlinear and small form factor optics. Extensive experience with GmAPD detector calibration and testing is critical. The engineer will support optical and radiation hardening for programs of record and IRADs and support sensor concept development for RFI and Proposals. If you're a seasoned expert in these areas with a passion for deeply technical work and driving technical innovation, we encourage you to apply. 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:
Become a sensor, coating, and optical Systems Engineering SME to support IRADS and CRADs across our Sensor product lines and programs of record. Perform as a materials science SME for our Lambda program: materials specifications, analyses, and performance assessments. Support our
Nonlinear Optics IR Ds:
(Polychrome and Polymorph). Support our Small Form Factor IR D.
Support GmAPD improvements:
detector calibration, yield, testing, optical and radiation hardening for programs of record (Zeus, Nemesis, Helios) and IRADs (Ignite). Support sensor concept development for RFI responses and proposals. 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 8 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. Nonlinear Optics Background. Optical Material expertise in design, development, prototyping and testing. Expertise in optical sensor testing and calibration. Optical coating experience. Experience with Python or other programming and modeling languages. Experience working with DoW and/or IC technical support contractors and program technical representatives. Experience with rapid prototyping and/or hardware demonstrations. Experience with scoping and executing production programs and/or IRAD programs. Experience operating within classified program environments. Customer interfacing and proposal development. Superb presenter with documented presentation experience to grow new business opportunities. Excellent written communication and technology evaluation skills. Demonstrated excellent leadership and interpersonal skills in relevant technical environments. #
LI-GJ1 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 MS or PhD in Engineering, Math, Physics, or a related field. Technical leadership experience, including R D program and technical roadmap ownership, statement of work (SOW) and milestone planning, and strategic partner and vendor management. Electro-optical materials and devices background. Experiment design and data reduction, processing, and visualization. Familiarity with materials processes with regards to sensors and coatings.
Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range:
$132962 - $226035 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. Read Full Description Skills Required Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent technical experience Eight or more years of related experience, with applicable graduate degrees substituting for experience Background in nonlinear optics Optical materials expertise in design, development, prototyping, and testing Expertise in optical sensor testing and calibration Optical coating experience Experience with Python or other programming and modeling languages Experience working with Department of War and/or Intelligence Community technical support contractors and program technical representatives Experience with rapid prototyping and/or hardware demonstrations Experience scoping and executing production or IRAD programs Experience operating within classified program environments Customer interfacing and proposal development experience Documented presentation experience supporting new business opportunities Excellent written communication and technology evaluation skills Demonstrated leadership and interpersonal skills in technical environments Master's or PhD in engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related field Technical leadership involving R D programs, technical roadmaps, SOWs, milestone planning, strategic partners, and vendors Electro-optical materials and devices background Experiment design and data reduction, processing, and visualization experience Familiarity with materials processes related to sensors and coatings What the Team is Saying Dave K. Quality Assurance Manager Transferring internally is really driven by you. And when I say 'you,' this business allows people the opportunity to see things that resonate with them. If there's a position out there that's interesting to you, maybe you may not qualify for it right away. But your network, your leadership—they'll help you get the qualifications that are needed to make sure you meet those requirements. Dave K. Quality Assurance Manager Transferring internally is really driven by you. And when I say 'you,' this business allows people the opportunity to see things that resonate with them. If there's a position out there that's interesting to you, maybe you may not qualify for it right away. But your network, your leadership—they'll help you get the qualifications that are needed to make sure you meet those requirements. Maddie M. Project Controls Analyst I originally was kind of just looking to get into the defense industry and use my clearance and my bachelor's degree. Then when I got the job, I realized what a gem of a company I'd found because it wasn't just about work, work, work. It was about having kind of that playful interaction, that work-life balance, and also the opportunity to make mistakes and be coached. It was a very encouraging environment and I've learned so much because of the people who I work with. Michael Z. Operations Director The reason I choose to stay in a culture that listens is because it's not just me who's being listened to anymore. I get to do a lot of listening and I learn a lot, so it's not just a one way street. That's the great thing about listening to me, is that I get to learn and come up with new ideas that aren't my own, that are maybe even an intern comes up with a really fresh, cool idea and I'm willing to listen and I learn. David F. Business Intelligence Analyst The reason I enjoy BAE Systems is because everyone believes in what they do. It's a place where you join and want to continue to work at because it's growing and you're thriving along with it. Catherine B. Assembly Operator I volunteer because I strongly believe that my purpose is to serve. It aligns with my mission of helping everyone feel accepted, empowered, appreciated, and inspired. I've been able to give back so much more with the company's support. It has been really special to know people who share similar passions for helping others. Mike P. Software Engineer I started my career on the manufacturing floor. If it wasn't for my teammates, my peers, my colleagues, other engineers coaching me, mentoring me, having all the support that I have at BAE Systems, I don't know if it would be possible today for me to sit here today as a software engineer. Lexie W. Director of Manufacturing and Test Operations I started on the tactical side designing antennas as an RF engineer and moved into program management, and then moved into operations management, and then moved into manufacturing and running a program there, and then moving into manufacturing leadership. I've absolutely loved how my career has taken this weaving path, and I've been able to learn more and grow along the way. Rachel P. Finance Director There are a lot of different programs we they offer that I've been so fortunate to take advantage of. I'm involved in a couple of mentoring programs and have also participated in our Business Leadership Institute. These programs just make you feel like there's a commitment to growth that maybe I haven't felt at other companies. Howard K. Technical Director, Analytical Gaming One of the greatest benefits that BAE Systems has is the Employee Assistance Program. The EAP provides a wide range of services, from things like behavioral and counseling support, to helping you find a doctor, to child care, to pet sitting, to things that help you on the home front so you can focus on life and work. Amy M. Director of Talent Management BAE Systems has offered me a lot of work-life balance such as the 9/80 schedule which basically means that you have every other Friday off. BAE Systems also has a partnership with WINFertility that enabled me to go through the fertility process. I am so grateful that the company invested in that benefit. It was truly impactful for me, and now I have my son. Dave D. Program Manager What we get on our 401(k) match is great. I'm investing in my future, and my family's. I have a wife and two children enrolled in our health benefits as well. All these things through my job are a security blanket for us to know I can help take care of them. Jason P. Subcontracts Manager I really felt like I was in the right spot here at BAE when I first met a leader of ours. He is also a fellow veteran, and he was still wearing his jump wings. So I immediately, in having jump wings myself, kind of asked him about that and noticed that he was an Airborne veteran. I could relate to him, I belonged here. AJ B. Systems Engineer We get a lot of opportunities as early career workers to be at the forefront of leading different things. One of the first big presentations, I was very nervous. And my managers were like, you got this, you know what you're talking about. Getting to do it more and more over time made it easier. Tim P. VP of Strategic Communications Mentorship is really key to what we do as a team every day, both one-on-one and in small groups, small teams. I personally have been and continue to be mentored by folks with more years of experience than I have. That's really important because at some point, they will have to pass the baton, and those you're going to pass the baton to have to be ready. It's up to all of us to make sure that they are. Ryan Y. Program Manager When I first started at the company, we had to field next-generation technology and present it to our customer within a year. We were all in this mission together. I'm proud to say this technology that we were able to get to the field is actively being used in military aircraft right now, and it's being flown across 30 different rotary aircrafts. Jose A. Electrical Engineer We have a history of innovation and a culture to be able to try new ideas. Having that gene to push things forward is what I think BAE Systems is all about. Richard B. Factory Manager For innovation for us, it's a daily occurrence. Every day we're solving problems and we're looking, 'How can we do this better? How can I do this? How can I go faster? How can I be safer? How can my quality improve?' Every day when we solve problems, it's not just to go and solve it the same old way or make it go away. It's like, 'How do I make this problem never come back?' That's what I'm after. Nakia J. Operations Manager I explained our mission to my daughter who's nine. She's like, "Mommy, what do you do?" and "It's the people in the military that take care of us, Mommy has to take care of them, and we have to make sure that we keep them going so that they can keep us safe. Sara M. Contracts Manager I'm not the one wearing the fatigues, but I think that I take so much pride in the fact that I'm playing such a small part in something that defends my freedoms, and knowing that I'm playing in that at BAE Systems, it's huge for me. Chris D. Director of Army Programs The transition from military service to civilian life can be both challenging and rewarding. For veterans, the military instills in us a deep sense of purpose, discipline, and camaraderie, creating a longing to continue serving after leaving the forces. At BAE Systems, I found the opportunity to live by a new mission - protecting those who protect us. The company's commitment to supporting our armed forces resonates deeply with my values and experiences. Liz S. Employee Engagement Manager My progression and career with BAE Systems started 14 and a half years ago when I was getting out of the Navy. I was an imagery analyst for five years, and a friend that was working with BAE Systems referred me to the company. This was my way that I could continue to support the military and support the whole mission. Sam W. Space Domain Awareness Specialist One of the great things about BAE Systems is that it easy in my role to get the charge code to be able to say, I'm going to spend a whole lot of time working on this interesting problem and then write a paper on it. Kind of like an academic researcher, but just in industry you don't typically get that sort of flexibility in a lot of jobs. Caitlin A. Logistics Analyst BAE Systems supported me during two beautiful paid for full pay maternity leaves, not everyone is doing that. I honestly had a really hard time coming back to work during them. But my boss was so flexible with work-life balance and understanding the importance of me being a mom and being able to do things like day care and school drop off and pickups. There is so much support here for working parents. Kristian I. Electrical Engineer) We could work at any defense company, but it's about the people we work with every day. Starting at a new company is challenging, but the intern program is amazing about pulling people together, and fostering interactions with leadership. People treated me with kindness, listened to my ideas. Liz N. VP of Business Development I see an environment that allows people to speak and truly be heard. When you create that environment for your employees, you build incredible loyalty. Kendall K. Principal Financial Analyst The company doesn't expect you to know everything right out of the gate. There's a system in place that allows you to make mistakes in a safe environment. Linnaea H. Intelligence & Security Program Manager We are all a part of a team. Whether it's at work or at home, whether you're a people leader or an individual contributor, a rookie, or a veteran - being a good teammate comes down to valuing each other's unique strengths and fostering a collaborative environment for all. Stephanie F. Program Director I think it is really important to take charge of your own career. No one is going to do it for you. You'll get plenty of opinions along the way, but I've always stuck to what makes me happy, and it has never led me astray. Be your own advocate. And engage with a career mentor — someone who you resonate with and who will champion you. Also, choose a company that is willing to invest in you and will allow you to professionally thrive, like I did with BAE Systems. BAE Systems Talent management is about so much more than tools or programs, it's about people. From the moment someone applies to BAE Systems to their ongoing professional development, we're focused on fostering an environment where careers with purpose are not just possible but encouraged. David W. Technology Area Director I've been given every chance to succeed at every level of my career, from security guard to cyber operations tech director. I've been provided the tools to grow through stretch assignments, generous tuition reimbursement to complete my MBA, formal training, leadership programs, and most importantly, great mentors. Amy L. Software Implementation Specialist I have the joy to continuously improve through training opportunities, new task (work) opportunities, and the tuition reimbursement program. I am never without something to do and work Stephanie F Program Director I've come to learn that there really is no such thing as balance. A few great mentors have coached me on work-life integration, and I think I'm now living proof of that concept. Some days giving more to one than the other. In that way, I've had to make both professional and personal sacrifices, which have been fully supported by BAE Systems and my family to ensure that I can be a successful program director and mother. Brain H. Principal Systems Administrator What I love about BAE Systems and what keeps me here is hands down the team camaraderie. The team I work with has such a vast range of expertise that helps me continue to grow and learn each day. BAE Systems promotes a healthy work/life balance which enables me to be the best I can be at work and at home. I look forward to my future with BAE Systems and the opportunity it provides. Dave H. Aerospace, Defense & Security Executive My approach to leading the business is really about seeking the collective wisdom of the organization. I don't have all the answers, but I can ask the right questions. Knowing that you're not the smartest person in the room is important, and so is a willingness to tap into others' knowledge to solve tough problems and answer difficult questions. At the end of the day, the team is turning to me for direction, and I have the conviction and resources to make hard decisions. Maria A. Engineering Development Director You really have the space to imagine new technologies, develop ideas, and take advantage of your talent. I felt truly heard on how I could make an individual contribution BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights Healthcare Strength — Health coverage is broad with medical, dental, and vision options, plus mental health and EAP resources, and U.S. eligibility that can begin quickly. Materials also reference wellbeing programs designed to support employees and their families. Retirement Support — Retirement offerings include a
U.S. 401
(k) savings plan with company match information highlighted in benefits summaries. Global materials also reference pension contributions in some regions, indicating solid long-term financial support. Parental & Family Support — Programs include paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy assistance, and back-up child and elder care for U.S. employees. Family resources and caregiving support are emphasized across benefit materials. Learn more about BAE Systems, Inc.'s Compensation & Benefits → BAE Systems, Inc. Insights What's It Like to Work at BAE Systems, Inc.? BAE Systems, Inc. Culture & Values BAE Systems, Inc. Career Growth & Development What's the Work-Life Balance Like at BAE Systems, Inc.? BAE Systems, Inc. Leadership & Management BAE Systems, Inc. Company Growth, Stability & Outlook View all jobs at BAE Systems, Inc. View BAE Systems, Inc. Profile Report Job