Join BAE Systems at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant (HSAAP), where you will play a pivotal role in safeguarding national security. We are seeking a Chemical Process Expert to lead the modernization and sustainment of critical energetic manufacturing processes. This isn't just a maintenance role; it is a strategic leadership position where you will conceptualize and execute the next generation of chemical production capacity for the United States Government.
The Impact
As a Senior Principal Engineer, you will bridge the gap between high-level strategic planning and tactical execution. You will have the authority to:
- Drive Innovation: Lead multi-disciplinary teams to solve complex modernization problems, integrating cutting-edge technology into specialized energetic production facilities.
- Architect Solutions: From initial conceptual design and "Analysis of Alternatives" to final commissioning, you will own the technical lifecycle of critical infrastructure projects.
- Influence Strategy: Work directly with the Engineering Manager to prioritize projects that balance the immediate needs of the plant with long-term strategic goals.
You are a seasoned engineer with a passion for the chemical process industry and a track record of leading complex construction and design projects. You enjoy the challenge of a "matrixed" environment where you can pivot between technical deep-dives (thermal, power, piping) and high-level stakeholder management.
Why BAE Systems?
The energetics industry is a highly specialized field. At BAE, you aren't just an employee; you are an expert in a niche domain. Whether you aspire to become a distinguished technical fellow or a senior executive leader, we provide the roadmap and the resources to get you there.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience).
- Experience: 5+ years in the chemical process industry; a proven track record in project leadership, design, and commissioning.
- Expertise: Proficiency in at least one core discipline Electrical Engineering.
- Working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, including UFC.
- Working knowledge of design software for efficient production of engineering work (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Inventor, etc.).
- Ability to direct design teams and external design firms and create required engineering documentation using Microsoft Office Suite products including Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Project.
- Ability to interface effectively with site operations and maintenance teams.
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Preferred: PE License, 10+ years of experience, and familiarity with DoD/DDESB standards.
- Experience in project or construction estimating
- Professional Engineering License
- Experience in Energetics and related processes and Department of Defense (DoD) projects
- Systems Engineering Analysis, Model Based Systems Engineering, Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics, other analysis software experience
- Ability to generate engineering design drawing using appropriate software
- 10+ years' experience preferred
- Experience in the design and construction of chemical manufacturing facilities that involve the use of acids, bases, and solvents for the production of energetic materials
- Experience with demilitarization, explosives site safety (DDESB), or environmental safety regulations (EPA, TDEC, etc.) #LI-Onsite #LI-JR1
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $108787 - $184937
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 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 in Engineering or equivalent experience
- 5+ years of experience in the chemical process industry
- Proven experience in project leadership, design, and commissioning
- Expertise in Electrical Engineering
- Working knowledge of applicable codes and standards, including UFC
- Working knowledge of engineering design software such as AutoCAD or AutoCAD Inventor
- Ability to direct design teams and external design firms
- Ability to produce engineering documentation using Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Project
- Ability to interface effectively with site operations and maintenance teams
- Professional Engineering license
- 10+ years of experience
- Familiarity with DoD and DDESB standards
- Experience with project or construction estimating
- Experience with energetics and related processes and DoD projects
- Experience with systems engineering analysis, Model Based Systems Engineering, Finite Element Analysis, Computational Fluid Dynamics, or other analysis software
- Experience generating engineering design drawings
- Experience designing and constructing chemical manufacturing facilities involving acids, bases, and solvents for energetic materials
- Experience with demilitarization, explosives site safety, DDESB, EPA, or TDEC regulations
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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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.








