FAST Labs - RF Algorithms and Hardware Senior Scientist

Job Description
FAST Labs, the research and development organization of the Aerospace & Mission Systems (AMS) Segment at BAE Systems, is seeking two early-career Scientists to support the Multi-Mode Sensing Equipment (MMSE) Tech Area in the Sensing Technologies (ST) Product Line. Our strategic vision highlights collaboration across the enterprise, transition to Division partners, and a focus on Contract Research and Development (CRAD) market demands. Our portfolio spans next-generation RF, EO/IR, sensing, photonics, and other advanced component and system technologies.
MMSE is seeking scientists who can contribute to both the technical execution and future growth of advanced RF hardware and algorithm-development programs. You will work with internal stakeholders and customers to understand mission needs, shape technical solutions, and help capture new opportunities. Science communication is central to this role: you will be expected to explain complex technical problems and solutions clearly to technical audiences, non-technical decision makers, and customers. We are looking for people who want to grow into future capture and technical leadership roles-not only solve difficult problems in the laboratory but also help define and win the next generation of work.
To be successful in this position, you should have a strong foundation in RF science and engineering, along with the ability to develop algorithms in firmware. Experience with embedded hardware, hardware/software integration, and customer-site field testing is highly desirable. One area of work includes novel approaches to isolation between RF transmit and receive paths; backgrounds in RF system architecture, electromagnetic structures, metamaterials, antennas, or related areas are valuable. The programs will use model-based systems engineering (MBSE) to develop a digital twin of the hardware, so the ability to connect Keysight SystemVue and MATLAB capabilities within MagicDraw or another MBSE environment is a significant advantage. You should be proactive, self-motivated, willing to ask for help, and eager to learn. You should also be able to translate customer needs into actionable technical tasks, collaborate across disciplines, and communicate results with clarity.
Because of the need for consistent, in-person collaboration and/or the requirement to perform all work onsite due to the nature of this particular role, it will be performed full-time on site. This means work will be conducted on location at a BAE Systems facility 100% of the time.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• We typically require a degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or another relevant technical field. Relevant academic projects, internships, research, or professional experience will be considered.
  • Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of relevant professional experience
  • Master's degree and 2+ years of relevant professional experience
  • PhD degree and 2+ years of relevant professional experience
• Active DoD Secret clearance required at time of hire; ability to obtain Top Secret with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access and Special Access Program (SAP) clearances
• Experience developing algorithms in firmware or embedded software, preferably for RF, signal processing, communications, sensing, or control applications
• Experience with embedded hardware, hardware/software integration, laboratory experimentation, or customer-site field testing
• Working knowledge of RF systems, antennas, signal processing, RF isolation, electromagnetic compatibility, or related technologies; experience with metamaterials or electromagnetic structures is a plus
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability and desire to present technical research clearly; willingness to deliver a 30-minute technical briefing during the interview process

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Experience with MATLAB and Keysight SystemVue, and the ability to connect analysis and simulation results to MagicDraw or another MBSE/modeling environment.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $97008 - $164914
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.