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BAE Systems has filed 2 layoff notices in the last twelve months, covering 174 workers, most recently March 2026. These are public filings with state labor departments, and an open role can sit alongside them. See the filings

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About the job

Job Description We are seeking a Senior Principal Software Engineer SW Technical Lead to head Small Form Factor efforts in Totowa, NJ. The Software organization develops and delivers Software solutions for our complex electronic products to our internal engineering teams and external testing sites.

In addition to software leadership responsibilities, you will be responsible for partnering with other leads to help ensure that program objectives are met, and that software engineering has consistent, predictable performance. You will also participate directly on Software development efforts across the business area.

Software Engineering is fast paced and dynamic. You will need to be self-motivated, and highly collaborative to succeed in this role.

Job responsibilities: Provide technical leadership and mentoring to the SFF engineering team

Analyze system requirements and design SW architecture to meet the specifications

Follow agile methodologies to plan and implement a quality SW product

Adopt the use of open architecture to promote interoperability and future growth

Implement emerging technology within existing code bases

Evolve the advanced products software architecture to be more efficient and robust

Construct SW build environments in multiple operating systems

Design unit test structures that strengthen the reliability of SW

Required Education, Experience, & Skills Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field

Minimum of 12+ years of experience in software development

Strong proficiency in C++

Strong knowledge of SFF baselines

Solid understanding of software design patterns, architectural styles, and software engineering principles

Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems development

Experience with communication protocols (e.g., UDP, TCP/IP)

Experience with Agile development methodologies

Experience with software configuration management tools (e.g., Git)

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Must currently hold an active Secret clearance

Strong Leadership Skills

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills Prior success participating in team efforts.

A continuous improvement mindset to enhance Software development through process modernization.

Proven performance in software design and development.

Experience Developing and Integrating Application Software

Good leadership and communication skills.

#ECSSE

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.