FAST Labs Principal Engineer - EO/IR Systems
BAE Systems· Defense & Space· Oct 23, 2026 · 4d ago
Merrimack, New Hampshire
In office
Full-time
Principal
$118K–$201K
4+ years exp
Job description
Job Description Join our dynamic team of innovators and shape the future of technology with us. We're on the hunt for curious and driven individuals who thrive in collaborative environments and are passionate about harnessing the power of optical sensing technology to drive meaningful operational impact for our country's warfighters. If you're a creative problem-solver, a lifelong learner, and a team player who is always looking for ways to improve and innovate, we'd love to meet you. Our ideal candidate is someone who is proactive, adaptable, and excited about tackling new challenges head-on. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting your journey, if you're eager to learn, grow, and make a real difference, we want to hear from you.
Cutting-Edge Research and Development Team in FAST Labs
The BAE Systems' FAST Labs team conducts research and development in the following areas to create advanced electronic solutions for the U.S. military. These areas include • Advanced Electronics
• Autonomy
• Sensors & Processing
• Artificial Intelligence
• Electronic Warfare
• Cyber Operations & Defense
We foster a "what's next" mentality, driving the creation of cutting-edge solutions that address the defense industry's most pressing challenges. Our goal is to deliver game-changing capabilities that enhance situational awareness, accelerate decision-making, and improve operational efficiencies. By pushing the boundaries of what's possible, we're able to provide our warfighters with the strategic advantage they need to succeed. This critical work is core to our mission and reflects our unwavering commitment to "Protect Those Who Protect Us®”.
Join our team as a Principal EO/IR Engineer in FAST Labs Engineering
As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge EO/IR projects, collaborating with others to design, develop, and implement innovative mission solutions. Your work will involve: • Developing EO/IR system architecture and designs: Architect, design, and document early lifecycle EO/IR systems and associated capabilities.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams: Work closely with multi-disciplinary teams and stakeholder through EO/IR system development and integration challenges.
• Operating with tailored system engineering processes : Use dynamic, agile engineering methods and approaches that align with system cost, schedule, and performance requirements.
• Participating in product integration and verification efforts: Actively engage in product integration and verification, including development of methods and strategies to apply across the entire system design.
• Supporting test campaigns: Participate in test campaigns to demonstrate developed capabilities and provide operational value in relevant environments.
• Transitioning technology for productization: Work internally across BAE's Electronic Sector Business Areas to transition technology for productization.
Grow Your Career with a Purpose
At BAE Systems, we're committed to helping you achieve your full potential in the EO/IR engineering field. You'll be part of a high-performing team of passionate and motivated engineers who share a common goal: to protect our military service personnel and innovate for the greater good. Our mission is built on two core principles: "Protecting Those Who Protect Us" and "Innovating for Those Who Move the World". By joining our team, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and advance your career through ongoing growth and development opportunities. We're dedicated to supporting your continued education and professional development, offering comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and tuition assistance to help you pursue advanced degrees or certifications. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills in a specific area or take your career to the next level, we're committed to investing in your future and helping you achieve your goals.
Work Environment
This role requires 100% on-site work at a BAE Systems facility due to the need for consistent, in-person collaboration and secure access to sensitive information. Occasional domestic travel may be required to support integration and test events.
We believe that a healthy work-life balance is essential to your success and well-being. That's why we prioritize flexibility and support your needs outside of work, so you can thrive in all aspects of your life. At BAE Systems, you'll find a culture that values your contributions, fosters collaboration and innovation, and recognizes the importance of balance and well-being. Join us and discover a career that's both challenging and rewarding, with a purpose that makes a real difference.
Current BAE Systems employees are ineligible for sign-on bonuses. Required Education, Experience, & Skills • Active Secret Clearance
• Bachelor's Degree in optical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical field
• 4+ years of professional experience in optics, lasers, precision pointing, optical lens systems, or imaging systems
• Experience with design of optical systems for EO/IR applications
• Experience with collecting, analyzing, and documenting EO/IR system requirements
• Proficient with MATLAB and/or Python
• Good problem solving and debugging skills
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills • Active Top Secret Clearance
• Master's Degree or PhD in optical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical field
• Experience integrating and testing hardware and optical components in a laboratory environments
• Experience integrating and testing EO/IR systems in operationally relevant environments
• Professional Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) experience
• Experience in a rapid prototype environment
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 a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
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.
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Dental
Vision
401(K)
Paid Time Off
Professional Development