BAE Systems is seeking a Deputy Lead Opto-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.
The Deputy Lead Opto-Mechanical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO/IR system concepts. Work will support development of next-generation Precision Pointers, Laser Systems, Imaging Systems, and other complex EO/IR systems.
This position will require strong 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. The individual must be a self-starter and is desired to have development experience working with integrated military electronic hardware and related test equipment.
The selected candidate will execute both individually and in small to large team environments through all phases of the product life cycle. This includes concept development, detail design, qualification, manufacturing transition, and production support. The engineer will be responsible for developing innovative and robust hardware solutions to meet demanding customer requirements, and will leverage their mechanical engineering expertise to perform detailed design and analyses. Day to day, activities may include working with 3D solid models, drawings, and documentation utilizing GD&T principles; performing analyses to assure fit & function; performing thermal, structural/stress, and vibration analyses; assessing designs against environmental requirements; as well as conducting test and verification efforts.
With a product focus, the individual will actively partner with other engineering disciplines and operations personnel to develop solutions that adhere to UPC, DFT, and DFM requirements. Additionally, the engineer will support resolution of technical issues that are discovered during manufacture and test of deliverable hardware. This may include evaluating and troubleshooting mechanical faults and issues, assessing test failures for root cause, identifying disposition/corrective actions, as well as designing test equipment to ensure the performance and integrity of manufactured products.
This engineering role will provide rewarding challenges and exposure to experiences including:
- Design and development of IR technology hardware and systems
- Optomechanical design & analysis
- Design and development of motion systems including motors, encoders, bearings, seals
- Product/Factory Support of DoD military electronics/avionics equipment
- State-of-the-art mechanical engineering design and development tools
- Design and analysis of multilayer CCAs
- Prototype & test activities utilizing a fully equipped environmental test facility
- "Hands-on" laboratory experience with instrumentation, equipment, and processes
The ideal candidate will thrive in a learning environment that encourages leadership, technical, and career growth.
Because this role involves a combination of collaborative/in-person and independent work, it will take the form of a Hybrid Work Format, with time split between working onsite and remotely.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 10+ years' experience (8+ with a master's 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
- 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
- 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: $132962 - $226035
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 Electronic Systems
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.
Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
- 10+ years of experience, or 8+ years with a master’s degree
- Product development and support experience with DoD military electronics equipment
- Experience leading hardware engineering teams designing and developing military systems
- Experience with lasers, receivers, fiber optics, or related infrared technologies
- Strong mechanical design, analysis, and documentation fundamentals
- Experience with mechanical engineering development software tools
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including engineering documentation and presentations
- Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and solving technical problems
- Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and technical programs
- Knowledge of engineering development processes
- Eligibility to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance
- Knowledge or experience with optomechanical design and development
- Knowledge of military, ASTM, SAE, and other industry specifications and standards
- Experience designing or developing active motion-controlled hardware
- Experience designing and manufacturing electronic circuit card assemblies
- Experience with ANSYS Workbench or Mechanical, PTC Creo, MATLAB/Simulink, Siemens NX, or ANSYS Icepak
- Knowledge of design-for-manufacturing principles
BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage is presented as comprehensive, paired with an EAP, fertility and transgender care options, and HSA‑compatible plans that can include employer contributions with coverage starting on day one in some cases. These resources are reinforced by wellness tools and immediate eligibility noted on official benefits materials.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) savings plan is broadly available, with employer matching and other contributions that vary by business unit, and some U.S. employee groups retain pension arrangements. Company‑paid basic life insurance equal to 2x base salary (up to $1M) further strengthens financial security.
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Parental & Family Support — Paid parental leave (e.g., 160 hours for full‑time employees) sits alongside adoption and surrogacy reimbursement and Bright Horizons backup child and elder care. These benefits help reduce care gaps and complement PTO and applicable state programs.
BAE Systems, Inc. Insights
What We Do
Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do. As a leading aerospace, defense, and security company, we work together to deliver a full range of products and services for air, land, space, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. How we work is rooted in purpose – a purpose to protect those who protect us, to unite our community of colleagues and customers, and to drive forward the growth and development of our exceptional team members. It's where purpose connects.
Why Work With Us
We believe your career should be filled with innovation and discovery. And that's exactly what you'll find at BAE Systems. As you work to develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills and expand knowledge. On a sharp and collaborative team, you will be challenged – and supported – at every turn.
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