Do you thrive in developing new molecules or processes and seeing that effort transitioned to commercialized products? BAE Systems, one of the world's largest defense contractors and a stable Fortune 500 Company, is hiring an R&D Synthesis Chemist to help us develop, test, and bring to market new energetic materials. Our innovative and diverse group invented and commercialized IMX-101 and IMX-104, safer alternatives to TNT and Comp B. Our growing team of scientists from all across the country work closely together in our research facility surrounded by a nature preserve in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee.
We are seeking a detail oriented, highly organized individual to be responsible for developing and implementing explosive research programs to support product development efforts and provide technical support in the area of chemical synthesis and scale-up of energetic materials. The successful candidate will, under their own initiative:
- Devise safe, effective, and efficient methods of synthesizing chemicals including high explosives to support R&D
- Undertake experiments using corrosive, explosive, and toxic materials in a safe manner
- Specify lab equipment in support of synthesis experiments and lab scale process development
- Provide chemical support to chemical engineers, process engineers, and environmental and safety staff
- Provide technical assessments to senior leadership with recommendations for future research and development. Keep abreast of the latest research in energetic materials through literature reviews and technical conferences
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Required is a MS in chemistry or chemical engineering (or related field) from an accredited university with 5+ years of relevant experience.
- Must possess a good understanding of the principles of bench chemistry and have excellent communication skills.
- Must be able to effectively work in a dynamic team environment while also being able to work independently.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Desired is a Ph.D. in chemistry or chemical engineering (or related field) from an accredited university, and experience handling energetic materials, experience in the development and scale-up of new sythesis routes to a production environment.
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $79370 - $134929
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 Platforms & Services
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
The Platforms & Services (P&S) sector under BAE Systems, Inc does the big stuff: the armored combat vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair...just to name a few. Our employees take pride in the work they do and why they do it. They are on the front lines every day, building our products to protect the lives of those who serve. We may be biased, but we think P&S does some of the coolest work around, and we think you will too.
Skills Required
- MS in chemistry or chemical engineering
- 5+ years of relevant experience
- Good understanding of bench chemistry principles
- Excellent communication skills
- Experience handling energetic materials
- Ph.D. in chemistry or chemical engineering
BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Healthcare Strength — Benefits materials highlight multiple medical plan options with FSA/HSA eligibility, and a 2024 guide references company HSA contributions. Health coverage breadth is emphasized alongside additional wellbeing resources.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) savings plan is available with employer contributions or match offered by some business units per plan supplements. Company‑paid basic life insurance at 2x base salary (up to $1M) provides added financial protection.
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Parental & Family Support — Paid parental leave can be used in addition to other leave programs, with adoption and surrogacy reimbursement available. Feedback suggests bonding leave is available for all parents with additional short‑term disability for birth recovery, though specifics vary by business unit and state.
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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BAE Systems, Inc. Teams
BAE Systems, Inc. Offices
Hybrid Workspace
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.

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