📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Senior Principal Systems Engineer - RF Systems
• Company: BAE Systems
• Location: Westminster, Colorado, United States
• Job Type: On-site
• Category: Systems Engineering
• Date Posted: 2025-06-27
• Experience Level: 10+ years
• Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Key Responsibilities: Determine functional architecture of radar and RF model environments, aid in model development, perform analyses, collaborate with engineers, support program gates, and lead IRAD projects.
• Key Skills: Radar Systems, RF Systems, Modeling, Simulation, Signal Processing, Collaboration, Communication, Research, Analysis, Programming, Technical Leadership, Requirements Management, Project Management, Presentation Skills, Teamwork, Problem Solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in radar and RF systems, with a focus on modeling, simulation, and signal processing. The ideal candidate will have experience working on existing programs and proposal development, as well as collaborating with various engineering disciplines.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• Determine Functional Architecture: Develop and maintain the functional architecture of radar and RF model environments for use by engineers on existing programs and proposal development.
• Aid in Model Development: Contribute to the development of radar and other RFMS products to be incorporated into a modeling and simulation framework.
• Perform Analyses: Conduct analyses against system performance requirements to verify compliance and/or make recommendations about proposed requirements changes.
• Modeling and Simulation: Perform modeling and simulation for the conceptual design of a radar system to predict system-level performance at the algorithm and hardware levels.
• Collaborate with Engineers: Work closely with software engineers to ensure prototyped signal processing algorithms are correctly implemented in a compiled language, and with hardware engineers to ensure designs meet requirements.
• Support Program Gates: Participate in and support program gates such as preliminary design review, critical design review, and technical interchange meetings.
• Subcontractor Management: Support the development of subcontracted subsystems with requirements decomposition and allocation, and maintain regular engagements with subcontractors.
• IRAD Projects: Serve as the Principal Investigator of Internal Research and Development (IRAD) projects focused on radar signal processing algorithms.
• Research and Prototype: Research, review, and prototype radar signal processing algorithms in interpreted programming languages such as Matlab and/or Python.
• Execute Testing Campaigns: Execute testing campaigns to validate results and ensure the performance of radar signal processing algorithms.
• Lead Preparation of Presentations and Documents: Lead the preparation of presentations and documents to effectively communicate project progress and results to stakeholders.
• Brief Stakeholders: Brief internal stakeholders, internal subject matter experts, and external customers on project status, results, and recommendations.
• Maintain Regular Work Schedule: Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule, with regular in-person engagement by working on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong technical leadership skills, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have experience working on complex systems and be able to make informed decisions under tight deadlines.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required. Each higher-level degree may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.

Experience: 8+ years of related experience in radar and RF systems, with a focus on modeling, simulation, and signal processing. Experience working on existing programs and proposal development is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in radar and RF systems modeling and simulation.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Matlab, Python, or C++.
• Experience with requirements management and project management tools.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced degree in a related field.
• Experience with RF phenomenology.
• Familiarity with RFMS products and systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, experience with Agile methodologies and familiarity with defense industry standards and practices would be beneficial for this role. Additionally, experience with mentoring junior engineers and providing technical guidance would be an asset.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A for this role)

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $130,355 - $221,603 per year (based on market pay structures, individual salaries may vary)

Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Accounts
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Disability Coverage
• Life Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Legal Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Military Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Sick Leave

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with regular in-person engagement on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the salary range is provided, it is essential to note that individual salaries are determined by various factors, including business considerations, local market conditions, and candidate qualifications. Researching regional salary standards and cost of living may provide additional insights for this role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture: BAE Systems is a global defense, aerospace, and security company that 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. The company values innovation, integrity, continual learning, and strong execution.

Industry: Defense and Aerospace

Company Size: Large (over 100,000 employees)

Founded: 1939 (as an independent company, BAE Systems was formed in 1999 through the merger of British Aerospace and Marconi Electronic Systems)

Team Structure:

• The Engineering, Science, and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for customers’ missions.
• The Radio Frequency Mission Systems (RFMS) Product Area focuses on developing and delivering advanced radar and other RF systems for various applications.

Development Methodology:

• BAE Systems employs Agile methodologies for software development and project management.
• The company emphasizes collaboration, cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Company Website: https://www.baesystems.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems is a large, multinational company with a strong focus on innovation and technological advancements. The company's culture encourages collaboration, continual learning, and strong execution, making it an attractive option for experienced systems engineers looking to grow their careers in the defense and aerospace industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior Principal Systems Engineer - RF Systems (10+ years of experience)

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the RFMS Product Area leadership and may oversee junior engineers and technical contributors.

Technical Impact: The Senior Principal Systems Engineer - RF Systems has a significant impact on the development and delivery of advanced radar and RF systems, contributing to the company's mission of providing high-impact discriminating technologies for customers' missions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Growth: Pursue advanced degrees or certifications in relevant fields to further develop expertise in radar and RF systems, modeling, simulation, and signal processing.
• Leadership Growth: Seek opportunities to mentor junior engineers, provide technical guidance, and contribute to the development of company standards and best practices.
• Career Transition: Explore opportunities to transition into other technical leadership roles within the company, such as Chief Engineer or Technical Fellow.

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems offers numerous growth opportunities for experienced systems engineers, including technical development, leadership roles, and career transitions. The company's large size and diverse portfolio of products and services provide ample opportunities for professionals to expand their skills and advance their careers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, with regular in-person engagement required five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location.

Office Location(s): Westminster, Colorado, United States

Workspace Context:

• The primary work location is a modern office environment with access to necessary tools and resources for systems engineering tasks.
• Collaboration spaces and meeting rooms are available to facilitate teamwork and communication.
• The company may require access to other facilities in various weather conditions, such as production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.

Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, with regular in-person engagement on-site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role requires regular on-site engagement, BAE Systems offers a flexible work schedule that allows employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The company's focus on collaboration and teamwork creates a supportive and inclusive work environment.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

1. Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss the role, qualifications, and initial fit with the company.
2. Technical Assessment: A hands-on assessment or take-home project to evaluate technical skills in radar and RF systems, modeling, simulation, and signal processing.
3. Behavioral Interview: A structured interview focused on problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills, as well as cultural fit and career aspirations.
4. Final Interview: A meeting with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders to discuss the role, company culture, and next steps.

Portfolio Review Tips: (N/A for this role)

Technical Challenge Preparation:

• Brush up on radar and RF systems fundamentals, with a focus on modeling, simulation, and signal processing.
• Familiarize yourself with relevant programming languages, such as Matlab, Python, or C++.
• Review recent projects and case studies related to radar and RF systems to gain a better understanding of the company's work and industry trends.
• Prepare questions to ask the interview panel about the role, the team, and the company's goals and objectives.

ATS Keywords:

• Radar Systems
• RF Systems
• Modeling
• Simulation
• Signal Processing
• Systems Engineering
• Technical Leadership
• Requirements Management
• Project Management
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Research
• Analysis
• Programming
• RF Phenomenology
• Defense Industry
• Aerospace
• Security
• Agile Methodologies
• Defense Industry Standards
• Technical Mentoring

📝 Enhancement Note: While the interview process for this role is not explicitly outlined, BAE Systems is known for its comprehensive and thorough evaluation of candidates. The company's focus on technical expertise and cultural fit ensures that the interview process is designed to assess both the candidate's skills and their ability to contribute to the team's success.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A for this role)

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values: (N/A for this role)

Collaboration Style:

• BAE Systems emphasizes collaboration, cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• The company values open communication, active listening, and mutual respect among team members.
• BAE Systems fosters a culture of innovation, integrity, continual learning, and strong execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems' culture emphasizes collaboration, cross-functional teamwork, and continuous improvement. The company's values of innovation, integrity, continual learning, and strong execution create an environment that supports the success of its employees and the delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for customers' missions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• Complex Systems: Work on complex radar and RF systems, requiring a deep understanding of system-level performance, algorithm design, and hardware implementation.
• Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with emerging radar and RF technologies, and adapt to new tools, techniques, and methodologies as they become available.
• Performance Optimization: Continuously optimize radar and RF systems to meet performance requirements and exceed customer expectations.
• User Experience: Ensure that radar and RF systems are designed with the user in mind, balancing technical capabilities with ease of use and intuitive interfaces.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Training: Participate in company-provided technical training programs, webinars, and workshops to develop and enhance skills in radar and RF systems, modeling, simulation, and signal processing.
• Conferences and Events: Attend industry conferences, workshops, and events to network with peers, learn about emerging technologies, and gain insights into best practices and trends.
• Mentorship Programs: Seek mentorship opportunities within the company to learn from experienced engineers and gain insights into career growth and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: BAE Systems offers numerous learning and development opportunities for systems engineers, including technical training, conferences and events, and mentorship programs. The company's focus on continual learning and strong execution ensures that employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their roles and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• Radar and RF Systems: Prepare for questions about radar and RF systems fundamentals, with a focus on modeling, simulation, and signal processing. Be ready to discuss specific aspects of radar and RF systems, such as signal processing algorithms, antenna design, and system architecture.
• Programming Languages: Brush up on relevant programming languages, such as Matlab, Python, or C++, and be prepared to discuss your proficiency and experience with these tools.
• System-Level Performance: Prepare for questions about system-level performance, algorithm design, and hardware implementation. Be ready to discuss trade-offs between performance, cost, and complexity.

Company & Culture Questions:

• BAE Systems Culture: Research the company's culture, values, and mission. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values and career goals align with the company's objectives.
• Team Dynamics: Prepare for questions about team dynamics, collaboration, and communication. Be ready to discuss your experience working in cross-functional teams and your ability to contribute to a positive and productive work environment.
• Career Growth: Prepare for questions about your long-term career goals and aspirations. Be ready to discuss how this role fits into your career trajectory and how you plan to grow and develop within the company.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: (N/A for this role)

📝 Enhancement Note: While the interview process for this role is not explicitly outlined, BAE Systems is known for its comprehensive and thorough evaluation of candidates. The company's focus on technical expertise and cultural fit ensures that the interview process is designed to assess both the candidate's skills and their ability to contribute to the team's success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Principal Systems Engineer - RF Systems position at BAE Systems:

1. Submit your application through the application link provided in the job listing.
2. Prepare for the phone screen by reviewing the job description, researching the company, and practicing your responses to common interview questions.
3. Complete the technical assessment or take-home project, demonstrating your proficiency in radar and RF systems, modeling, simulation, and signal processing.
4. Prepare for the behavioral interview by reflecting on your past experiences, accomplishments, and lessons learned. Practice articulating your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
5. Research the company, its culture, and its mission to prepare for the final interview and discuss how your personal values and career goals align with the company's objectives.
6. Prepare questions to ask the interview panel about the role, the team, and the company's goals and objectives to demonstrate your interest and engagement in the process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.