Software Engineer (Unmanned Aerial Systems)

Job Description
BAE Systems Integrated Defense Solutions (IDS) business is seeking a highly skilled Software Engineer specializing in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to support both internal research and development projects and the delivery of innovative DoD customer solutions. The position will be central in the refinement and execution of the company's UAS technology roadmap to advance our strategic position to win business, disrupt competition, and accelerate successful execution of customer mission objectives. The selected individual will develop and optimize software solutions that power autonomous flight, mission planning, control systems, and data processing for our UAS platforms. You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust and scalable software solutions that meet the demands of our diverse customers.
IDS is a Business Area within the Intelligence & Security (I&S) sector of BAE Systems Inc. This position will report directly to the IDS Lead Software Engineer and will be a member of the IDS innovation team. The role will be based at one of our BAE regional offices and may require travel to customer locations.
Specific responsibilities of this position include but not be limited to:

• Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems for UAS platforms, including flight control algorithms, navigation systems, and real-time data processing
• Implement algorithms and software modules for autonomous flight control, obstacle detection and avoidance, path planning, and mission execution
• Develop tools and interfaces for mission planning, including route optimization, waypoint management, and payload integration
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to integrate software components with UAS hardware systems, ensuring seamless operation and performance
• Conduct rigorous testing, verification, validation, of software systems to ensure reliability, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards
• Formally document the requirements, architecture, design, procedures, and configurations within the IDS engineering processes
• Provide insights and recommendations that inform key decision-making processes that advance the company's strategic position to win business, disrupt competition, and accelerate successful execution of customer mission objectives
• Remain current on emerging UAS technologies and industry trends to drive innovation through both internal research and development and enhancements to software capabilities

Required Education, Experience, & Skills
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field
Minimum of six years of experience in software development for embedded systems or robotics with specific experience in UAS preferred
Proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or Java
Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded software development
Understanding of communication protocols and sensors commonly used in UAS
Knowledge of flight control systems, navigation algorithms, and sensor fusion techniques
Experience with simulation tools for testing and validation
Understanding of software development best practices, version control systems, and agile methodologies
Demonstrated knowledge of CI/CD tools and methodologies
Strong intellectual and analytical capabilities coupled with pragmatic problem-solving skills
Strong communications & influencing capabilities, a robust strategy & change management toolkit, and a passion to deliver innovative solutions
Collaborative work style with the ability to effectively interact with and earn the trust of peers and senior management across the organization
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
Post-graduate degree
Knowledge and experience working in the DoD technical services industry
Experience in proposal development and processes
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $102200 - $173700
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 Intelligence & Security
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.
Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do-from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
At BAE Systems, we work hard every day to nurture an inclusive culture where employees are valued and feel like they belong. We are conscious of the need for all employees to see themselves reflected at every level of the company and know that in order to unlock the full potential of our workforce, everyone must feel confident being their best, most sincere self and be equipped to thrive. We provide impactful professional development experiences to our employees and invest in social impact partnerships to uplift communities and drive purposeful change. Here you will find significant opportunities to do meaningful work in an environment intentionally designed to be one where you will learn, grow and belong.