FAST Labs™ is a world-class research and microelectronics production organization. Our vision, 'we secure the future through fearless innovation, fuels our curiosity, and propels our teams to take on 'never been done before' challenges. In the advanced electronics domain of FAST Labs™, we further the mission by developing and delivering some of the most advanced microelectronics technology and products that enable our customers to differentiate their offerings across commercial and warfare/defense markets. These technologies and products are based on a multitude of microelectronics fabrication technologies in silicon, SiGe, GaN, GaAs, and experimental processes.
The Microelectronics (µE) Product Line performs cutting-edge microelectronics research in its Science & Technology (S&T) area and delivers advanced microelectronic products in its Development & Production areas that advance mission capabilities across commercial and warfare/defense applications. We are seeking an experienced leader to join our µE product line as the Microelectronics Chief Technologist to lead our technology strategy and align it to Development & Production.
Additionally, FAST Labs™ is evolving into a mission-centered organization that focuses its research on the priorities that will have the greatest positive operational impact while driving exciting new business opportunities for the µE Product Line and broader BAE Business Areas. The Microelectronics Chief Technologist will be responsible for translating operational mission concepts into the ways microelectronics can contribute, and use this insight to focus the technology strategy.
Reporting directly to the µE Product Line Director, the Microelectronics Chief Technologist will guide the S&T and Development & Production efforts in ensuring the scientific activities, technical innovation, mission-centered focus, and product roadmaps deliver differentiating capabilities for our customer communities, now and into the future. The Microelectronics Chief Technologist is responsible for:
- Ensuring "how" we work is aligned with µE cultural values of Problem-Solving, Innovation, Collaboration, Ownership, and Growth
- The development, coordination, and maintenance of the product line technology and product strategy - including mapping a path from basic research and low technology maturity concepts to near- and long-term products
- Translating operational mission concepts into a focused microelectronics technology strategy, aligning technical and programmatic staff around that strategy, and ingraining mission-impact thinking into the scientific and technical teams
- Coordinating and administering the µE product line Internal Research and Development (IRAD) program; including approval authority for individual IRADs
- Periodic review of programs, pursuits, and IRADs with respect to their science and technology content and alignment with product roadmaps, mission focus, and other elements of the technology strategy
- Staying current on dynamic technology advances, assessing capabilities of competitor products and technologies, identifying approaches to close technology gaps, and developing strategic mitigation plans for our competitive marketspace to influence business growth
- Developing and leading strategy for critical internal and external collaborations and partnerships.
- Managing strategic partnerships and stakeholder relationships (commercial, university, venture, government, internal, ...), guiding the product line in relationship building and maintenance, both internally and externally, and using this network to connect the Microelectronics Portfolio Directors to customers.
- Supporting customer engagement and outreach, and other business development and capture activities, especially by providing expert technical counsel to influence customer and stakeholder requirements to align with robust technical solutions
This position reports directly to the µE Product Line Director and can be based out of our Nashua, NH; Merrimack, NH; Manassas, VA; or Arlington, VA facilities, though it will require collaboration with staff across our business areas and facilities in the Northeast.
Because this role involves a combination of collaborative/in-person and independent work, it can take the form of a hybrid work format, with time split between working onsite (> 50% of time) and remotely; or an on-site format.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Bachelor's Degree with 15+ year of professional research, capture and program management experience, Master's Degree with 13+ years of professional experience, Doctorate with 10+ years of professional experience, or equivalent.
- Ability to attain DoW TOP SECRET/SCI and SAP Security clearances
- Deep technical knowledge in a focus area of microelectronics, and broad technical knowledge across the breadth of microelectronics relevant to BAE Systems electronics markets and customers
- Deep understanding of microelectronics customer community and broad respect as a technology leader
- Understanding of operational and mission impact of microelectronics advancements
- Demonstrated ability to build team and stakeholder alignment around a holistic technology and/or product strategy and roadmap
- Experience leading collaboration with internal/external microelectronics domain stakeholders and customers to understand market trends, establish products and R&D programs, and align technology initiatives to business goals
- Proven ability to collaborate with and influence a diverse and complex organization across multiple sites and functions to solve complex technical problems to achieve objectives
- Experience developing and mentoring individuals and leaders
- Ability to define, propose, and lead complex independent research and development efforts
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience presenting technical material to audiences of various sizes and levels of seniority, including executives
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Active DoW TOP SECRET/SCI and SAP Security clearances
- Experience with IP capture process and developing IP strategy
- Experience and demonstrated success in shaping and capturing DoW/DoD microelectronics CRAD across multiple diverse customer bases
- Experience leading microelectronics products through the full lifecycle with DoW/DoD and commercial end-customers
- Experience executing and supervising the execution of R&D internal and external activities
- Ability to build, maintain, and leverage relationships within business areas, customer communities, and the broader microelectronics ecosystem
- Experience as technical lead of DARPA, IARPA or government lab R&D programs.
- Broad technical network from key Universities, Research Institutions, Warfare/Defense Community, and Commercial Microelectronics Partners
- Network of key stakeholders across BAE Systems Business Areas
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $173023 - $294137
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 with 15+ years of professional research, capture, and program management experience; or master's degree with 13+ years; or doctorate with 10+ years; or equivalent
- Ability to attain Department of War Top Secret/SCI and SAP security clearances
- Deep technical knowledge in a microelectronics focus area and broad knowledge across microelectronics relevant to electronics markets and customers
- Deep understanding of the microelectronics customer community and recognition as a technology leader
- Understanding of the operational and mission impact of microelectronics advancements
- Ability to build team and stakeholder alignment around holistic technology or product strategy and roadmaps
- Experience leading collaboration with internal and external microelectronics stakeholders and customers to understand market trends, establish products and research programs, and align technology initiatives with business goals
- Proven ability to collaborate with and influence complex, diverse organizations across multiple sites and functions to solve technical problems
- Experience developing and mentoring individuals and leaders
- Ability to define, propose, and lead complex independent research and development efforts
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presenting technical material to audiences of varying sizes and seniority
- Active Department of War Top Secret/SCI and SAP security clearances
- Experience with intellectual property capture processes and developing intellectual property strategy
- Demonstrated success shaping and capturing Department of War or Department of Defense microelectronics research and development across diverse customer bases
- Experience leading microelectronics products through their full lifecycle with Department of War, Department of Defense, and commercial end customers
- Experience executing and supervising internal and external research and development activities
- Ability to build, maintain, and leverage relationships across business areas, customer communities, and the broader microelectronics ecosystem
- Experience serving as technical lead for DARPA, IARPA, or government laboratory research and development programs
- Broad technical network across universities, research institutions, defense communities, and commercial microelectronics partners
- Network of key stakeholders across BAE Systems business areas
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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Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
As the work place continues to evolve, so do we. Remote and hybrid opportunities are available at BAE Systems depending on the nature of the role. Check your job requisition to learn more.








