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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 BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical – Mechanical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program portfolio.

BAE Systems is seeking a proactive Sr. Principal Optical - Mechanical Engineer with analytical capabilities and demonstrated technical expertise. This individual will provide leadership and support to the design, development, integration/test, and production of dynamic optomechanical military systems. The engineer will work closely with hardware integrated into a variety of complex IR technology products including lasers, receivers, sensors, as well as multi-axis beam directors/gimbals. Demonstrated experience in product development and support of DoD military electronics equipment

Leadership of HW engineering teams in the design & development of military systems

Working experience packaging with EO/IR products such as; lasers, receivers, fiber optics, and/or related IR technologies

Solid fundamentals of mechanical design, analysis, and documentation principles

Experience with state-of-the-art mechanical engineering development software tools

Strong written and verbal communication skills including development of engineering documentation and presentations

Motivated self-starter and problem solver with proven experience executing in multi-disciplinary teams

Strong computer skills in basic MS office and technical programs

Knowledge of engineering development processes

Eligible to obtain a DOD Security Clearance

Hybrid : Onsite 3 days per week Required Education, Experience, & Skills Requires: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 12+ years experience (10+ years with a masters degree)

Demonstrated experience in product development and support of DoD military electronics equipment

Leadership of HW engineering teams in the design & development of military systems

Working experience with lasers, receivers, fiber optics, and/or related IR technologies

Solid fundamentals of mechanical design, analysis, and documentation principles

Experience with state-of-the-art mechanical engineering development software tools (CAD)

Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Familiarity with geometirc dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

Strong written and verbal communication skills including development of engineering documentation and presentations

Motivated self-starter and problem solver with proven experience executing in multi-disciplinary teams

Strong computer skills in basic MS office and technical programs

Knowledge of engineering development processes

Eligible to obtain a DOD Security Clearance

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills Preferred: Knowledge/experience with optomechanical designs & developments

Knowledge of MIL specs & standards, industry standards including ASTM, SAE, DO

Experience in the design/development of active motion controlled hardware

Experience in the design and manufacture of electronic circuit card assemblies

ANSYS Workbench/Mechanical, PTC Creo, MATLAB/Simulink, Siemens NX, ANSYS Icepak

Knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM) principles

Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $149603 - $254317

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.