Principal Engineer – Spacecraft System Test Engineer (AI&T) - $15K Sign On Bonus

BAE Systems•Boulder, CO
•$118,095 - $200,762•Onsite

About The Position

BAE Systems Aerospace & Mission Systems is seeking a Principal Engineer to drive the testing and execution of space flight hardware. The role combines hands-on technical execution with technical leadership, including leading or supporting test campaigns and verifying spacecraft performance. The engineer will work within the Engineering, Science and Analysis Strategic Capabilities Unit and mentor engineers and technicians in flight hardware testing. The position focuses on integrating and testing spacecraft hardware in cleanrooms and laboratory environments, defining integration and test approaches, mitigating technical risks, and planning the ground support equipment, facilities, and equipment needed for AI&T and launch operations. The engineer will also support proposal responses and study reports, develop solutions to reduce cost, schedule, and risk, and maintain rigorous quality standards. This is an on-site position requiring work at the primary location five days per week. Work may take place in an office, laboratory, production floor, cleanroom, outdoors, or a remote research environment. Occasional work in production areas may require protective equipment, and the role may involve access to facilities in various weather conditions. Travel and local commuting between company campuses and other locations may be required.

Requirements

  • A bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or a related technical field, plus six or more years of related experience; related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education.
  • Each higher-level related degree, such as a master's degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of related experience.
  • Degree must be from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education or U.S. Department of Education.
  • Current, active Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
  • Experience in spacecraft environmental testing and pre- and post-validation of spacecraft systems.
  • Proficiency with spacecraft command and control systems, simulators, software test benches, and electrical ground support equipment (EGSE).
  • Expertise across the full test lifecycle, including defining test strategies, test plans, and detailed test procedures.
  • Proficiency with MS Office tools and strong general computer skills.
  • Excellent presentation and communication skills for coordination across cross-functional teams.

Nice To Haves

  • Proficiency in one or more of Python, Ruby, JavaScript, or Go.
  • Experience with GitLab and knowledge of test automation applications and tools.
  • Direct experience with COSMOS Command and Control Software.
  • Experience setting up and configuring RF GSE, including signal generators, spectrum analyzers, and power meters.
  • Familiarity with software testing at unit, integration, and end-to-end levels.
  • Experience in cost and schedule estimation, proposal development, and IRAD activities.
  • Prior experience in space or military programs.

Responsibilities

  • Lead or directly support integration and testing of spacecraft hardware in cleanrooms and laboratory environments to verify requirements and calibrate performance.
  • Define program integration and test approaches and generate comprehensive AI&T flows to mitigate technical risks.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert, mentoring engineers and technicians while participating directly in test campaign execution.
  • Identify and specify the ground support equipment, facilities, and equipment required for AI&T and launch operations.
  • Contribute technical expertise to proposal responses and study reports, focusing on AI&T architecture for spacecraft buses and integrated vehicles.
  • Develop and implement technical solutions to reduce cost, schedule, and risk while maintaining quality standards.
  • Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships across the department, 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.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance for regular employees scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week.
  • Health savings accounts.
  • 401(k) savings plan.
  • Disability coverage.
  • Life and accident insurance.
  • Employee assistance program.
  • Legal plan.
  • Discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance.
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • Paid parental, military, and bereavement leave, as well as applicable federal and state sick leave.
  • Company recognition program with monetary or non-monetary awards.
  • Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
  • A $15,000 sign-on bonus is offered for external hires.
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