Principal Software Architect - GPS Receivers

Job Description
BAE Systems is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Principal Software Architect with a strong systems engineering background and a passion for innovation to lead the software design for our industry-leading GPS products. In this critical role, you will be the driving force behind the architecture, design, and implementation of software for real-time embedded GPS receivers used in demanding military weapons applications. This is a unique opportunity to deepen your expertise in GPS technology and receiver architecture while shaping the future of our Modernized GPS receiver products.
As the Software Architect, you will be responsible for defining the overall software architecture, ensuring its alignment with system requirements, and providing technical leadership throughout the entire software development lifecycle. Your responsibilities will encompass requirements analysis, high-level and detailed design, code reviews, integration oversight, verification strategies, and comprehensive documentation. You will proactively identify and mitigate technical risks, and champion best practices in software engineering. Beyond architecture, you will also contribute to the development of software tools, support field demonstrations, provide customer support, and mentor other engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
This role demands a seasoned professional capable of translating complex system requirements into robust, reliable, and maintainable software architectures for embedded systems.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) discipline, and 6+ years of direct related experience.
• US Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain a DoW Security Clearance.
• Proven ability to define and document software architectures for complex real-time embedded systems.
• Strong understanding of software development processes for real-time embedded applications, including architectural patterns and design principles.
• Exceptional verbal and written technical communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate architectural decisions to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• High motivation to solve problems and continuously improve existing products.
• A genuine desire to learn and innovate.
• Desire to contribute to a results-oriented product development team.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse team.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Experience working with software and systems engineering processes.
• Demonstrated leadership experience guiding program execution and mentoring other engineers.
• Significant experience in software requirements engineering and architectural design, including functional decomposition, subsystem interface definition, technology application, and performance analysis.
• Hands-on experience with real-time embedded hardware systems.
• Proficiency with development tools such as Eclipse, Jira, Jama and DOORS.
• Strong programming skills in Ada, C, C++, Java or other high-order languages in real-time embedded applications.
• Experience with Python scripting for automation and testing.
• A working knowledge of Communication Systems, Digital Signal Processing, or Kalman Filter Theory.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $107359 - $182510
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.