Four BAE Systems employees standing in front of a digital jet, combat vehicle. marine vessel, and space satellite.
BAE Systems, Inc. Logo

BAE Systems, Inc.

Engineer Senior - Optical Hardware

Posted 24 Minutes Ago
Be an Early Applicant
Hybrid
Westminster, CO
95K-162K Annually
Senior level
Hybrid
Westminster, CO
95K-162K Annually
Senior level
As an optical engineer, you will design, develop, integrate, and test optical systems for airborne and space applications, collaborating with cross-functional teams to support project outcomes.
The summary above was generated by AI
Job Description
As an optical engineer at BAE Systems, you will play a key role in advancing our technology and developing innovative optical systems for airborne and space-based applications.
The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.
What You'll Do:
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, develop, align, integrate, and test state-of-the-art optical systems for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
  • Work hands-on with optical hardware, performing analytical work, and driving technology development.
  • Procure and validate cutting-edge optical components to support system development.
    Lead or participate in optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment, working closely with engineers from various disciplines.
  • Participate in design reviews, presenting findings, and providing input to ensure successful project outcomes.
  • Contribute to proposal development, responding to RFIs, and authoring white papers to support advanced program development
  • Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
  • Perform other duties as necessary.

On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site three or more days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.
Working Conditions:
  • Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
  • May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
  • May access other facilities in various weather conditions.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills
  • BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related field is required plus 4 or more years related experience.
  • Each higher-level related degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of related experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
  • 3 years or more of of experience working with optical hardware for space-based or airborne instruments in an industrial setting.
  • Ability and willingness to obtain a DOW Secret clearance (possession of a current clearance is preferred).
  • Solid foundation in optical engineering principles, including optical alignment and testing techniques and equipment.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
#LI-SW2
A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
  • Advanced degree in Optical Engineering (Master's or PhD).
  • Experience with programming tools such as Matlab and optical design/analysis software.
  • Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $95106 - $161680
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 Space & Mission Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for the U.S. Intelligence, Department of Defense and scientific communities. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most.
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.
Multiple positions may be available on this opening.

Top Skills

Matlab
MS Office
Optical Alignment And Testing Techniques
Optical Design/Analysis Software
Optical Engineering Principles
Optical Hardware

BAE Systems, Inc. Boulder, Colorado, USA Office

1600 Commerce St, Boulder, CO, United States, 80301

BAE Systems, Inc. Broomfield, Colorado, USA Office

BAE Systems, Inc. Space & Mission Systems headquarters Office

Headquartered in Broomfield, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems.

Similar Jobs at BAE Systems, Inc.

23 Minutes Ago
Hybrid
Westminster, CO, USA
47K-75K Annually
Junior
47K-75K Annually
Junior
Aerospace • Hardware • Information Technology • Security • Software • Cybersecurity • Defense
The RF Technician II will support RF R&D activities, involving testing and troubleshooting RF components, while collaborating with engineers in a laboratory environment. Responsibilities include developing technical solutions and maintaining a productive work environment.
Top Skills: Amplifier TestingAntennasAutocadElectronic Circuit TroubleshootingMastercamRf ComponentsSolidworksSwitch Testing
24 Minutes Ago
Hybrid
Broomfield, CO, USA
147K-249K Annually
Senior level
147K-249K Annually
Senior level
Aerospace • Hardware • Information Technology • Security • Software • Cybersecurity • Defense
As Engineering Manager, oversee manufacturing teams, budget planning, employee management, risk management, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Top Skills: Lean ToolsSix Sigma
24 Minutes Ago
Hybrid
Boulder, CO, USA
147K-249K Annually
Senior level
147K-249K Annually
Senior level
Aerospace • Hardware • Information Technology • Security • Software • Cybersecurity • Defense
The Engineering Manager II oversees a fabrication team, ensuring production schedules, safety, and quality standards are met while managing budgets and personnel development.
Top Skills: 6-SigmaLean

What you need to know about the Colorado Tech Scene

With a business-friendly climate and research universities like CU Boulder and Colorado State, Colorado has made a name for itself as a startup ecosystem. The state boasts a skilled workforce and high quality of life thanks to its affordable housing, vibrant cultural scene and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Colorado is also home to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, helping cement its status as a hub for renewable energy innovation.

Key Facts About Colorado Tech

  • Number of Tech Workers: 260,000; 8.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
  • Major Tech Employers: Lockheed Martin, Century Link, Comcast, BAE Systems, Level 3
  • Key Industries: Software, artificial intelligence, aerospace, e-commerce, fintech, healthtech
  • Funding Landscape: $4.9 billion in VC funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
  • Notable Investors: Access Venture Partners, Ridgeline Ventures, Techstars, Blackhorn Ventures
  • Research Centers and Universities: Colorado School of Mines, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Denver, Colorado State University, Mesa Laboratory, Space Science Institute, National Center for Atmospheric Research, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Gottlieb Institute

Sign up now Access later

Create Free Account

Please log in or sign up to report this job.

Create Free Account