FAST Labs Chief Software Architect
BAE Systems· Defense & Space· Oct 23, 2026 · 5d ago
Merrimack, New Hampshire
In office
Full-time
Principal
$153K–$261K
12+ years exp
Job description
Job Description Join the 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 Chief Software Architect in FAST Labs Engineerin g
As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge software projects, collaborating with others to design, develop, and implement innovative software solutions. Your work will involve: • Designing and evaluating complex software architectures : Contribute to the development of innovative software architectures, ensuring they meet customer requirements and are aligned with industry best practices.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams : Work closely with senior engineers, customers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement software solutions that meet customer needs.
• Developing software applications : Design, develop, test, and integrate software applications in languages such as C++, Python, and MATLAB, utilizing various technologies such as Cloud Native Technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Harbor, Helm) and real-time operating systems (RTOS).
• Driving agile development processes : Participate in agile development processes, contributing to the team's success and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality software solutions.
• Interfacing with hardware devices : Develop software solutions that interface with hardware devices such as FPGAs, GPUs, and embedded SoCs, utilizing protocols such as UART, I2C, SPI, and CAN.
• Applying DevSecOps and CI/CD practices : Ensure the security and integrity of software solutions by applying DevSecOps principles, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), and automated release management.
• Utilizing containerization and cloud technologies : Develop software solutions utilizing containerization (e.g., Podman/Docker) and cloud technologies, ensuring scalability, reliability, and efficiency.
• Developing software for RF, Radar, EO/IR, Electronic Warfare, or Software Defined Radio systems : Design, develop, and test software applications for systems related to RF, Radar, EO/IR, Electronic Warfare, or Software Defined Radio, including signal processing, data analysis, and system control.
Grow Your Career with a Purpose
At BAE Systems, we're committed to helping you achieve your full potential in the software 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.
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.
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. Required Education, Experience, & Skills • Typically, a bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline with 12+ years of related experience; OR a master’s degree with 10+ years of experience; OR a PhD degree with 8+ years of experience
• Active Top Secret DoW clearance with ability to obtain SAP and SCI
• Proven ability to define, document, and evangelize end‑to‑end software architectures (conceptual, logical, and physical) using SysML/UML models, and Architecture Description Documents
• Experience delivering architecture review briefings to senior stakeholders, program managers, and integration partners.
• Expert-level experience with object oriented design, development practices, and implementation in C++11 (or later)
• Expert-level experience developing for and operating in a Linux Environment
• Experience deploying industry best practices, and incorporating emerging software technologies
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing requirements
• Proven project management skills with ability to deliver high-quality software products on time
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills • Master's Degree or PhD in computer science, computer engineering, or a related technical field
• MATLAB Experience is a plus
• Development experience with Python
• Experience in a rapid prototype environment
• Real-time, embedded, multi-threaded, low latency development and/or Linux application development
• Experience with DevSecOps, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), or automated release management
• Experience with containerization (e.g. Podman/Docker) and developing software in containerized environments
• Experience developing applications that cover several of: distributed, multi-threaded, real time, embedded, low latency, DSP, device control, or military systems.
• Knowledge of Digital Engineering methodologies and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices.
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $153377 - $260743
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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Benefits
Benefits detected in the listing.
Dental
Vision
401(K)
Paid Time Off
Professional Development