Principal Software Engineer - Seeker Market Expansion

Job Description
The Mission
Join the Seeker Market Expansion Software Team within our Precision Strike & Sensing Solutions (PGSS) business. This isn't just another maintenance role; you will be a foundational technical leader for a new, low-cost seeker program series that is critical to BAE Systems' growth over the next decade.
We are currently in the high-impact phase building and testing prototypes while forming requirements and interfaces. While we have early prototypes the architectural roadmap is still open. We need a visionary Principal Engineer to help us make the critical design decisions that will define the success of this program for years to come.
The Challenge
You will lead the development of complex embedded systems utilizing Xilinx System-on-Chip (SoC) FPGAs and System-on-a-Module (SOM) architectures leveraging ARM processors.
You will be instrumental in evaluating and implementing the right operating systems for our processing units, whether that is FreeRTOS, VxWorks, or Bare Metal, to ensure maximum reliability and performance for precision munitions.
Roles and Responsibilities:

• Architect & Influence: Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to translate high-level system requirements into robust, efficient software architectures
• Drive Technical Excellence: Lead the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), from initial design and coding to integration and verification on hardware
• Mentor & Lead: Serve as a key technical mentor to junior engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration and high-standard engineering patterns
• Collaborate Across Domains: Partner closely with Systems, Hardware, and Test engineers to resolve complex technical bottlenecks and optimize the SoC interface
• Secure the Future: Implement security-focused development practices to mitigate vulnerabilities in critical national security infrastructure

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master's preferred)
• Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance
• 10+ years of experience in embedded systems development
• Proven track record creating software for Xilinx SoC FPGAs or equivalent
• Proficiency in C/C++ with an expert-level understanding of memory management, data structures, and algorithms
• Experience configuring and deploying embedded operating systems

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Experience with RTOS (VxWorks, FreeRTOS) or Bare Metal development.
• Knowledge of signal processing or guidance and control systems
• Experience with Agile workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and static code analysis tools
• First-hand experience with agentic workflows
• A security-first mindset regarding embedded vulnerabilities

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $136000 - $231200
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.