Principal Engineer

Job Description

US CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED
#LI-SH2
We are seeking a highly motivated and independent Principal Engineer to join our team in the development of advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions for defense contracting applications. The successful candidate will have a solid background in AI/ML, with a focus on natural language processing and large language models. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that involve converting natural language into actionable intelligence for autonomous systems.

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:
Conduct research and experimentation in Generative AI/ML, focusing on the development of novel solutions for defense-related applications.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate Generative AI/ML capabilities into larger systems and architectures.
Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation of new tools and capabilities, ensuring seamless knowledge transfer to colleagues.
Participate in project planning and execution, providing technical leadership and guidance to junior engineers.
Engage with engineering management and stakeholders to communicate project status, discuss technical trade-offs, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
This is a research-focused role that requires a high degree of independence and self-motivation.
The successful candidate will work in a hybrid environment, with regular work in a SCIF.
Opportunities for professional growth and development will be available, including training and education.
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 working with large language models (LLMs) and natural language processing.
Proficiency in Python programming language.
Solid problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

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

PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Master's degree or higher in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience working in a SCIF environment.
Familiarity with defense contracting applications and the associated regulatory environments.
Knowledge of agile development methodologies and version control systems such as Git.
Experience with cloud computing platforms, such as Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $105254 - $178931

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 Space & Mission Systems

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 the U.S. Intelligence, Department of Defense and scientific communities. 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.

---